Key facts
- U.S. senators Ted Cruz and Jeanne Shaheen introduced a resolution calling for elections in Venezuela.
- The resolution demands the release of political prisoners and punishment for those harming individuals seeking public office.
- The bipartisan effort reflects frustration with the Trump administration's Venezuela policy.
- Venezuela's most popular opposition leader, Maria Corina Machado, is excluded from upcoming talks.
- U.S. officials have publicly sidelined Machado, questioning her support base.
Seven months after the Trump administration's intervention in Venezuela, a bipartisan group of U.S. senators has called for elections in the South American nation. Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire) introduced a resolution supporting free and fair elections, advocating for the release of political prisoners, and holding accountable those responsible for harming individuals seeking public office.
The resolution emerges amidst growing dissatisfaction with the effectiveness of the Trump administration's strategy to foster democratic change in Venezuela. While talks between Venezuela's interim government and a segment of the opposition are slated to commence soon, a significant figure, Maria Corina Machado, the country's most popular opposition leader, will not be participating.
Senator Cruz emphasized that free, fair, and transparent elections are crucial for Venezuela's future and align with U.S. national security interests. Senator Shaheen echoed these sentiments, urging the authorities in Caracas to free all political detainees and permit all political figures, including Machado, to return and engage in political activities safely. The resolution has garnered support from five other senators.
Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, departed Venezuela late last year and has expressed a desire to return, particularly in response to recent devastating earthquakes. However, U.S. officials have reportedly advised against her immediate return, deeming it inopportune. Reports indicate that Trump's administration has denied instructing Machado not to return, though she has been publicly sidelined by Washington since Maduro's removal, with U.S. officials citing insufficient support for her leadership.