World News

Venezuelans rally to demand opposition leader's return and presidential elections

Protesters gathered in major cities while government blocking claims and U.S. safety advice persist.

Updated Sep 28, 2026 · 06:13 UTC2 reports

The short version

Supporters of Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado rallied in Caracas and state capitals to demand her safe return from exile and new presidential elections.[ABC News]
Machado's party states she has made multiple failed attempts to return to Venezuela this year, accusing the government of blocking her entry.[Al Jazeera · ABC News]
Venezuelan authorities deny preventing her return, while U.S. officials state she has the right to enter but have advised caution due to safety concerns.[ABC News]

Venezuelan opposition supporters held demonstrations in Caracas, Valencia, Maracaibo, and Merida demanding Maria Corina Machado's return and new elections.[Al Jazeera · ABC News]
Machado's party reported that she has made several unsuccessful attempts to return to Venezuela from exile this year.[Al Jazeera · ABC News]
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated Machado has the right to enter Venezuela, though U.S. officials have advised against travel on some occasions due to safety concerns.[ABC News]

Venezuelan authorities deny claims by opposition activists that the government is actively blocking Machado's return to the country.[ABC News]
Critics have questioned whether the Trump administration has been involved in hindering Machado's return attempts, which U.S. officials deny.[ABC News]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.