Venezuelans demand Machado return and transition to democracy - Semafor

Demonstrators took to the streets of Caracas to demand the opposition leader María Corina Machado’s return to Venezuela, as fears grow that Washington is deprioritizing a transition to democracy.

The US, which has de facto control of Venezuela, has vowed to stabilize the economy before pushing for elections; leaders of both countries reportedly discussed holding a vote over the weekend, though details were scant.

Critics, however, say the country is ready to end almost three decades of Chavista rule and Machado should be allowed to return. “This is not a matter of parties or politics,” an activist said at the Caracas rally. “This is a movement for the people and by the people.”