Venezuela Opposition Leader Calls for Increased U.S. Pressure on Maduro

Venezuela's opposition leader, Maria Corina Machado, urges the U.S. to step up pressure on President Nicolas Maduro amid controversy surrounding the July presidential election, alleged to be unfair by multiple observers. The U.S. is considering sanctions on Venezuelan officials, while international response mounts against the Maduro government.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has called on the United States to intensify pressure on President Nicolas Maduro. Speaking during an online press conference, Machado emphasized the need for a stronger response amid ongoing disputes over the legitimacy of the July 28 presidential election, which many international observers have criticized.

Machado cited the preliminary measures that the U.S. has considered, including sanctions and visa bans on around 60 Venezuelan government officials. Despite preparations, the U.S. government has yet to implement these actions. Sources indicate that the list of potential sanctions targets includes members of Venezuela's electoral body, senior judges, lawmakers, and security officials.

The dispute over the election has brought about significant international concern, with countries like Brazil and Colombia condemning recent developments, including an arrest warrant for opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez. The U.S. has expressed its disapproval and is evaluating various options to pressure the Maduro administration. Meanwhile, the country's economic crisis continues, with estimates of Venezuelan debt ranging from $60 billion to $150 billion.

(With inputs from agencies.)