Maduro Accuses U.S. of “Silent War” as Opposition Leader Calls for Regime Change
CARACAS, Venezuela - Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has accused the United States of waging a “silent war” against his government, following renewed U.S.sanctions adn heightened criticism of recent elections. The accusations come as opposition leader maria Corina Machado, currently in hiding, directly appealed to supporters of Maduro to join the movement seeking to oust his regime.
The escalating tensions mark a critical juncture for Venezuela, a nation grappling with a severe economic crisis and political instability. The U.S. actions, intended to pressure Maduro toward democratic reforms, risk further isolating Venezuela and exacerbating humanitarian concerns. Simultaneously occurring, Machado’s call for broad-based resistance signals a potential shift in the opposition’s strategy, aiming to fracture support for the ruling government.
Machado, who went into hiding after a disputed election last year, lauded the U.S. measures as a reduction in support for Maduro. In a message disseminated via the X app to members of the Venezuelan military and security forces, she asserted that ”absolutely no one needs a path to redemption” more than those currently backing Maduro. “History, the law and the Venezuelan people will be yoru judges,” she stated.
“Be a hero, not a criminal. Be a source of pride, not shame for your family. Be part of Venezuela’s shining future, not the ruin that tyranny has created as this day approaches,” Machado urged. She further accused Maduro of transforming Venezuela into “a real threat to the national security of the United States.”
Machado also publicly called on Maduro supporters to join the opposition movement, stating, “The cry of this land that demands freedom grows and echoes inside and outside the country. Thirty million of us rise up against a criminal regime that is falling.”
The U.S. has previously levied sanctions against Venezuelan officials accused of corruption and human rights abuses, and has repeatedly called for free and fair elections. The current escalation follows a controversial presidential election in 2023, which was widely condemned by international observers as lacking legitimacy. The future of Venezuela remains uncertain as both sides dig in, and the potential for further unrest looms.
