Machado leads protests

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado emerged from hiding to lead protests in Caracas against the contested re-election of President Nicolás Maduro, which critics allege was fraudulent. The National Electoral Council declared Maduro the winner with 51% of the vote, compared to 46% for opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez, but independent observers and polling suggested widespread support for Gonzalez. Machado addressed thousands of supporters, emphasizing the strength of the opposition while claiming her life is at risk due to government hostility. The protests have escalated, resulting in at least 20 deaths and numerous arrests as security forces crack down on demonstrators. Despite government claims of a U.S.-backed coup attempt, supporters remain resolute in their fight for democracy. The Organization of American States called for peaceful demonstrations amidst the rising tensions in the country.