Five members of Venezuela's political opposition have left an Argentinian embassy in Caracas, where they sheltered for over a year to escape arrest. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio termed it a rescue operation after the group arrived safely in the U.S. They were granted refuge in March 2024 amid warrants for their arrest issued by President Maduro's regime. Notably, the group's members included key figures from opposition leader Maria Corina Machado's campaign. The situation was exacerbated by constant surveillance and alleged utility cut-offs enforced by the Venezuelan government.
Marco Rubio described the event as a rescue operation, detailing how all hostages held by the Maduro regime at the Argentinian embassy in Caracas are now safely on US soil.
Maria Corina Machado thanked all involved in what she called an 'impeccable and epic operation' for the freedom of five heroes of Venezuela, highlighting their struggle against oppression.
The group had faced constant pressure from intelligence service agents and police outside their residence, which compounded their challenging situation while sheltering in the Argentinian embassy.
The Venezuelan government's crackdown on dissent has escalated, particularly against political opponents, as illustrated by the recent arrest warrants issued prior to the presidential elections.
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