Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado raised alarm on Tuesday over direct and systematic threats of extrajudicial execution issued by the Nicolás Maduro regime against political prisoners held in El Rodeo prison, located east of Caracas.
"I have received information regarding threats of extrajudicial execution against political prisoners. These intimidations are crimes against humanity and grave violations of International Humanitarian Law," Machado declared on her X account, emphasizing that the Venezuelan state will be held accountable for any physical or psychological harm inflicted upon the detainees.
Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2025 for her advocacy of human rights across Latin America, Machado asserts that these prisoners are essentially hostages of the state.
Various organizations, including Foro Penal and Amnesty International, have documented numerous cases of torture and disappearances within Venezuelan detention centers.
This declaration comes amid heightened international tensions following the launch of Operation Southern Spear, a U.S. Southern Command military initiative officially aimed at dismantling drug trafficking networks but perceived as a direct message to the Maduro regime.
The White House has stated it is closely monitoring the repressive actions of the Maduro government and will respond to any state-sponsored crimes.
"The international community cannot turn a blind eye. Lives are at risk today," Machado urged, calling on the UN and the OAS to immediately activate protective measures for Venezuelan political prisoners.
Key Questions About Threats to Venezuelan Political Prisoners
What specific threats have been made against the political prisoners in Venezuela?
Maria Corina Machado reported that there are direct and systematic threats of extrajudicial execution against political prisoners held in El Rodeo prison.
How has the international community responded to these allegations?
The White House is closely monitoring the situation, and Maria Corina Machado has called for the UN and OAS to activate immediate protective measures.
What actions have human rights organizations taken regarding this issue?
Organizations like Foro Penal and Amnesty International have documented numerous cases of torture and disappearances, highlighting the dire conditions in Venezuelan detention centers.