María Corina Machado remains unable to return to Venezuela

Opposition leader María Corina Machado remains unable to return to Venezuela despite at least seven attempts to enter the country. Her team reported that her three most recent attempts were made this week via Panama, utilizing both maritime and aerial routes through the Caribbean.

In Caracas, supporters of the Vente Venezuela party held protests at Plaza Venezuela and marched toward the National Electoral Council (CNE) headquarters. Demonstrators demanded a clear schedule for presidential elections and called for Machado's safe return. Protesters also briefly occupied the Francisco Fajardo highway before dispersing due to rain.

Human rights advocates have described Machado's situation as a “de facto exile,” arguing that preventing her return violates her civil and political rights. There are calls for the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and other regional mechanisms to intervene to ensure her safe reentry and the ability to exercise her political activities.