Maduro’s strongest challenger, barred from running, picks a stand-in
Washington PostMar 22
Argentina Shelters Venezuelan Opposition Leaders in Embassy
The Facts
The office of Argentina's Pres. Javier Milei confirmed at a press conference in Buenos Aires on Wednesday that Venezuelan "opposition leaders" took refuge in the Argentine embassy in Caracas.
Buenos Aires further warned Caracas against any deliberate action that could jeopardize the safety of its diplomatic personnel and the Venezuelan citizens under its protection.
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
By sheltering opposition figures in its embassy, the far-right populist Javier Milei has sided with the US in its quest to interfere in the Venezuelan elections. After Washington's puppet Juan Guaidó failed, it's now Machado who is tasked with bringing about neoliberal regime change. It's not Maduro who is undermining democracy in Venezuela, but Washington's policy of meddling and sanctions, which is not aimed at the well-being of the Venezuelan people.
Pro-establishment narrative
Argentina's decision to grant protection to opposition leaders was justified and in line with international law. Emboldened by the easing of US sanctions, the Maduro regime launched a fresh campaign of arrests and harassment against opposition activists while driving his country to economic ruin. The socialist dictator wants only hand-picked rivals to run in the sham elections and the free world must remain on the side of the Venezuelan people and democracy.