Venezuelan Opposition Leader Machado Detained During Protest

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado was detained during a protest in Caracas, sparking nationwide demonstrations against President Nicolas Maduro's controversial re-election. Her political group reported that she was 'violently intercepted' by security forces, who allegedly opened fire on the vehicles transporting her. International condemnation has followed, with human rights organizations and various governments, including the U.S. and Spain, demanding her immediate release and condemning the Maduro regime's escalating repression of political opposition. Machado, who had emerged from hiding to lead the protest, accused the government of electoral fraud and manipulation. As the situation intensifies, opposition supporters continue to rally for change, while the government showcases pro-Maduro demonstrations. This incident comes just ahead of Maduro's inauguration for a third term, which has been widely criticized as illegitimate by both local and international observers.