Over the weekend, Venezuelan authorities increased security around the Argentine Embassy in Caracas, where six opposition figures have been sheltering since March.
The individuals, affiliated with María Corina Machado’s Vente Venezuela party, face legal issues stemming from their involvement in anti-government activities.
President Nicolás Maduro has maintained his rightful claim to victory in the July election, despite opposition leader Edmundo González’s assertions. Maduro has yet to release the full official results but has called for respect for Venezuelan sovereignty.
The heightened security near the embassy followed Machado’s announcement of a December 1st protest. One of the opposition members claimed on social media that the building was “under siege,” though officials described the measures as standard protocol to ensure public safety.
Tensions with Argentina escalated earlier this year when President Javier Milei rejected Maduro’s election win. Venezuela responded by expelling Argentine diplomats and withdrawing Brazil’s embassy security, citing allegations of improper activity at the embassy, which both nations denied.
Machado, while disqualified from running, continues to lead opposition efforts. Despite international and domestic criticism, the Maduro government asserts its commitment to law and order, calling for constructive dialogue over divisive rhetoric.
