In brief
In a significant turn of events, five key Venezuelan opposition leaders have left their hideout in the Argentine diplomatic residence after 412 days and arrived safely in the United States. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio celebrated their escape as the "successful rescue of all hostages held by the Maduro regime," hinting at a meticulously planned operation. This announcement arrives amid attempts by the Maduro government to smooth relations with the U.S., which has warned of reimposing harsh oil sanctions. While the Venezuelan government appears to make limited concessions, about 900 political prisoners remain jailed, and primary opposition leader María Corina Machado remains in hiding following her disqualification from last year’s election.
