Venezuelan Opposition Leader María Corina Machado Nominated to Challenge Maduro, Defying Government Ban

Conservative opposition leader María Corina Machado has been nominated to challenge President Nicolás Maduro in the upcoming Venezuelan presidential election, despite facing a government ban. Machado won the opposition's primary with strong voter turnout, indicating hope for change. The US recently eased sanctions on Venezuela in response to an agreement between the government and the opposition to hold elections in 2024. The US expects Maduro to reinstate disqualified candidates and ensure a fair electoral process. The US may take action if promises regarding oil and gas licenses are not fulfilled.