Members of the Venezuelan opposition taking refuge in the Argentine embassy are facing escalating pressure and security threats from the Maduro government. After nearly nine months in hiding, they have called for global assistance for safe passage from Venezuela as they navigate a precarious situation marked by power outages and armed surveillance The group has reported severe restrictions on essential resources, highlighting the ongoing political persecution in the country, further exacerbated by the crackdown on dissent following controversial election results.
Six Venezuelan opposition figures have taken refuge in the Argentine embassy in Caracas for nearly nine months, depending on generators after power was cut. This past Saturday, they spoke publicly through a video conference, expressing their urgent need for safe-conduct passes to exit Venezuela amid increasing political persecution. The group, which includes prominent members supportive of María Corina Machado, is under constant surveillance by the Venezuelan police and claims they are experiencing an intense siege, marked by armed presence and drone surveillance.
The pressure intensified after the Venezuelan government escalated its operations against the embassy, accusing the opposition figures of conspiracy against the state. These individuals went into hiding on March 20, as arrest warrants were issued against them. They had previously coordinated an electoral campaign aimed at challenging President Nicolás Maduro, who has since tightened his grip on power. They report being surrounded by armed men, highlighting how the embassy has become a tool for the government to exert control and intimidation tactics against perceived threats.
For over twenty days, the opposition group has been without electricity and has grown increasingly isolated as local staff members have distanced themselves for safety reasons. Food and water shortages have worsened, leading to psychological distress amidst armed showdowns by officials. In addition, as Venezuela’s political climate deteriorates, the government is suppressing protests ruthlessly, with over 2,000 arrests reported following controversial election outcomes, resulting in deaths in custody due to lack of medical care.
This situation has created a dire request from the opposition for urgent global intervention and protection from neighboring countries, particularly Brazil, which has offered support after diplomatic rifts between Argentina and Venezuela intensified. As these figures continue to face escalating threats, their situation remains precarious, necessitating immediate attention from the international community to safeguard human rights and political freedom in Venezuela.
The current climate in Venezuela has become increasingly hostile, particularly for those opposing the ruling government of Nicolás Maduro. Opposition figures, such as María Corina Machado, have faced severe repression, including arrest warrants and political persecution. The Argentine embassy in Caracas has served as a temporary refuge for those targeted by the government. The embassy’s situation exemplifies the lengths to which the Maduro regime has gone to maintain control and suppress dissent, as well as the urgent need for international intervention and support for the Venezuelan opposition.
The situation for Venezuelan opposition leaders at the Argentine embassy has deteriorated significantly, characterized by power cuts, isolation, and threats from security forces. The members call for global assistance and safe passage to escape political persecution. With over 2,000 people imprisoned and reports of deaths in custody following the disputed electoral process, the urgency for coordinated international action to protect human rights in Venezuela cannot be overstated.
Original Source: english.elpais.com
