Venezuela's Election Controversy: Machado Calls for More U.S. Pressure

Venezuela's opposition leader Maria Corina Machado urges the U.S. to increase pressure on President Nicolas Maduro regarding the disputed July presidential election. While Maduro's regime claims victory, international observers and opposition figures attest to significant irregularities. With ongoing sanctions and calls for reform, the political climate remains volatile.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on Thursday called for the United States to intensify its pressure on President Nicolas Maduro amid ongoing disputes over the July presidential election.

Democracies worldwide have criticized the Venezuelan government's management of the July 28 vote, which officials claim was won by Maduro, in power since 2013. Full tallies haven't been released, with authorities citing a cyber attack.

According to opposition tallies, their candidate Edmundo Gonzalez won resoundingly. International observers, including the Carter Center and a U.N. panel, labeled the vote as unfair. The U.S. has drafted a list of about 60 Venezuelan officials for potential sanctions but has yet to act.

Already under broad sanctions by the U.S. and EU, key Venezuelan officials and the oil industry could face further punitive measures.

Machado advocates for international punitive mechanisms against human rights violators and asserts that the downfall of Maduro's regime would benefit international investors and creditors. Venezuela's debt estimates range from $60 billion to $150 billion.

U.S. oil company Chevron and European firms like Repsol have received authorizations to expand operations with state oil company PDVSA.

In the aftermath of the disputed vote, at least 24 people have died in protests, with many opposition leaders detained. Maduro's government accuses the opposition of aligning with imperialist forces and causing unrest.

Brazil and Colombia expressed grave concern over an arrest warrant for Gonzalez, describing it as an 'authoritarian escalation.' Washington also condemned the action, suggesting potential consequences for the Maduro regime.

(With inputs from agencies.)