Argentina’s government is intensifying its efforts to compel Venezuela to grant safe passage to six opposition aides seeking refuge in its embassy in Caracas, according to official sources. The aides, facing physical risk if they remain in Venezuela, had initially sought asylum after arrest warrants were issued against them for conspiracy by a local prosecutor.

Opposition leader María Corina Machado, under whose campaign these aides were working, has denied any wrongdoing. Despite being the frontrunner in polls, Machado was barred from running in the upcoming presidential election. This move is part of a broader trend by President Nicolas Maduro’s government to target political opponents, despite previous electoral commitments.

Initially, there were indications that Maduro’s government would allow the six aides to leave safely, with plans for them to travel to Buenos Aires. However, Argentine officials have stated that no such concession was ever granted. According to sources from the Argentine government, Venezuela has not complied with agreements or with the Convention on Diplomatic Asylum, putting the safety of the aides at risk.

The Argentine government is taking a firmer stance on the issue, signaling diplomatic pressure on Maduro’s administration just months before the contentious election in Venezuela. There are expectations that Argentina will escalate its efforts this week, aiming to garner more regional support in demanding a resolution to the matter.

It is anticipated that other countries in the region will also join in calling for Venezuela to respect and adhere to international conventions. The Argentine government emphasizes the importance of Venezuela granting safe-conduct passes without conditions so that the six asylum seekers can safely leave the embassy residence.

Overall, Argentina’s increased pressure on Venezuela underscores the ongoing tensions between the two countries and the broader implications for diplomatic relations and human rights in the region.