Argentina has accused Venezuela of harassing six opposition members sheltering at its Caracas embassy. The Argentine government demands OAS intervention for their safe departure, citing prolonged harassment and violations of international asylum rights.
On Wednesday, the government of Argentina formally accused Venezuela of persistently harassing six political opposition members who have been seeking refuge at the Argentine embassy in Caracas for several months. Argentine Foreign Minister Gerardo Werhein criticized the Venezuelan regime for adopting a “strategy of physical exhaustion” and “psychological terror” against these individuals, who are attempting to escape unwarranted arrests. The group consists of four men and two women, including key figures connected to opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.
Minister Werhein highlighted the alleged measures employed by the Venezuelan government, which include disruptions in essential services such as water and electricity, as well as heightened police presence near the diplomatic compound. The members of the opposition, originally residing at the ambassador’s residence since March, fear for their safety due to continuous threats aimed at them by the Venezuelan authorities.
In light of these developments, Argentina urged the Organization of American States (OAS) to exert pressure on Venezuela to facilitate the safe travel of the asylum seekers back to Argentina. Werhein emphasized the necessity of OAS intervention, arguing that the harassing actions inflicted upon these individuals are violations of their right to asylum and the integrity of diplomatic premises as established under international law.
Brazil previously agreed to provide security for the Argentine embassy; however, it rescinded that authorization after Venezuela accused Brazilian diplomats of illegal activities at the embassy site. President Javier Milei’s administration continues to stand firm in denying the Venezuelan claims while advocating for the safe passage of political dissidents. Several OAS member countries have expressed their backing for Argentina’s position and called for an end to the Venezuelan government’s politically motivated arrests of opposition figures.
The ongoing political turmoil in Venezuela has intensified since the presidential elections in July, which resulted in claims of electoral fraud. Opposition factions assert they have substantial evidence that contradicts the official outcomes declared by Venezuelan authorities, triggering further unrest and demands for transparency in the electoral process.
The ongoing crisis in Venezuela has seen significant political repression, particularly against opposition members. The situation escalated following the controversial July presidential elections, where President Nicolás Maduro’s government faced accusations of electoral fraud. In this context, several opposition figures have sought refuge at foreign embassies, claiming that their lives are at risk due to the government’s reprisals. The international community, particularly organizations like the OAS, is being called upon to address these urgent humanitarian concerns and uphold the principles of asylum and diplomatic protections.
The allegations raised by Argentina against Venezuela highlight the severe repression faced by opposition members under Maduro’s governance. As the situation develops, the need for international intervention becomes increasingly evident. The Argentine government is rallying support from the OAS and making significant efforts to ensure the safety of those seeking asylum, while also confronting violations of international norms regarding diplomatic immunity.
Original Source: www.the-messenger.com
