The Maduro government of Venezuela has announced the detention of five foreigners, including three US citizens, suspected of antigovernment activities following the country’s controversial presidential election. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello revealed that the detainees, one from Bolivia and one from Peru, were held for alleged “terror” activities, with one US citizen detained in the border state of Zulia. The crackdown comes amid increased repression in Venezuela after the disputed election that saw Maduro claim victory without providing detailed results, prompting allegations of fraud from the opposition and international observers.
Critics suggest that Maduro is using foreign prisoners as leverage in international relations, with past prisoner exchanges involving US-Venezuela tensions. Relations between the two countries have been strained for years, with accusations of human rights abuses and US interference in Venezuelan affairs leading to sanctions. The Maduro government has also accused foreign countries, including the US, of involvement in alleged plots to assassinate the president. Recent arrests have brought the total number of foreigners detained by Venezuela to at least 12, with the US government expressing concern for the safety and security of American citizens involved. The ongoing political turmoil in Venezuela has further strained relations with the US and other Latin American countries, with calls for free and fair elections amidst increasing crackdowns on dissent.
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