**Maduro’s Regime Warned by Diosdado Cabello: “Do Not Even Consider” Threats Against María Corina Machado | Venezuela’s Political Crisis Intensifies**

US Lawmakers Condemn Threats Against Venezuelan Opposition Leader Amid Rising Tensions

Published: September 5, 2024 | Updated: September 5, 2024

A Sharp increase in Diplomatic Friction between Washington and Caracas has ignited a firestorm of condemnation after threats were leveled against Venezuelan Opposition Leader María Corina Machado. Several US Congressmen have issued stern warnings in response, escalating the already tense situation.

The controversy stems from statements made during a recent broadcast of the “With the Deck” program, where Diosdado Cabello, a key figure in the Venezuelan Government, issued what many perceive as a direct threat to Machado, a prominent voice in Venezuela’s opposition movement.

US Response: A unified Front

Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar, representing Florida, delivered a robust response via social media platform X, formerly Twitter. She cautioned Cabello against any actions targeting Machado,stating,”Don’t even think about touching María Corina Machado. The United States and the whole world are watching.” Salazar also highlighted the existing $25 million US Government reward for information leading to Cabello’s arrest, citing alleged ties to the “Los soles” cartel.

Mario Díaz-Balart, also a Florida Congressman, echoed these sentiments, asserting that any aggression against legitimate Venezuelan leaders woudl face severe consequences. “Those who believe they can attack legitimate, elected leadership of Venezuelans should know they will face the most severe repercussions,” he warned.

Carlos Giménez, another Republican legislator, praised Machado’s courage and dedication, describing her as representing “the decent and honest Venezuela” poised for a resurgence once the current political crisis subsides.

Cabello’s Warning and Accusations

On Wednesday,September 3rd,Diosdado Cabello,vice President of the United Socialist party of Venezuela (PSUV) and Minister of Internal Relations,made the contentious statements during his “With the Deck” program. He stated, “She should understand that if they squeeze us, we squeeze back. A brief statement is sufficient. Don’t believe you can assault us here and leave unscathed.” This remark has been widely interpreted as an intimidation tactic directed at Machado.

Beyond the threats against Machado, Cabello also levied accusations against the United States regarding a recent military operation in the Caribbean Sea. He alleged that the US operation, which resulted in the destruction of a vessel and the deaths of 11 individuals, was a fabricated pretext for a “regime change” attempt in Venezuela. He questioned the legality of the operation, demanding transparent explanations and challenging the US account of events.

US Defense of Caribbean Operation

US authorities swiftly defended their actions. Marco Rubio maintained the legitimacy of the operation, comparing it to former President Donald Trump’s decision to destroy the vessel rather than intercept it, as a deterrent to criminal organizations. “The only way to stop them is to destroy them,” Rubio stated.

Defense Secretary Peter Hegesh refuted claims that the video footage released by the US was fabricated or digitally altered, countering accusations made by venezuelan Communications Minister Freddy Ñáñez. “I saw it live. We knew who was on the boat and what they represented: that is the Aragua train,” Hegesh saeid in an interview with Fox News.

Venezuela-US relations: A Historical Overview

Year	Event
2019	US recognizes Juan Guaidó as interim president of Venezuela.
2020	US imposes sanctions on Venezuelan officials accused of human rights abuses and corruption.
2022	US eases some sanctions in response to talks between the Venezuelan government and opposition.
2023	Increased US scrutiny of alleged ties between Venezuelan officials and drug trafficking.
2024	Current escalation following threats against María Corina Machado and disputes over Caribbean Sea operation.

The Broader Context of Venezuelan Political Instability

Venezuela has been grappling with political and economic turmoil for years, marked by hyperinflation, shortages of essential goods, and a mass exodus of citizens. The current political landscape is heavily polarized, with the government of Nicolás Maduro facing widespread criticism for alleged authoritarian practices and human rights violations.

The opposition, while fragmented, seeks to restore democracy and address the country’s economic woes. Key figures like María Corina Machado have gained prominence by challenging the Maduro administration and advocating for free and fair elections. The recent escalation in tensions underscores the fragility of the situation and the potential for further instability.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the current situation between the US and Venezuela? Relations are highly strained due to political disputes, accusations of drug trafficking, and threats against opposition figures.
2. Who is María Corina Machado? She is a prominent Venezuelan opposition leader challenging the Maduro government and advocating for democratic reforms.
3. What are the accusations against Diosdado Cabello regarding drug trafficking? the US government has offered a $25 million reward for information leading to his arrest, alleging ties to the “Los Soles” cartel.
4. What was the US military operation in the Caribbean Sea? It involved the destruction of a vessel allegedly linked to drug trafficking, resulting in the deaths of 11 individuals, an event disputed by venezuela.
5. what is the Aragua Train? It is a notorious transnational criminal organization operating in Venezuela and the region,allegedly involved in drug trafficking and other illicit activities.

What are your thoughts on the US response to the situation in Venezuela? Do you believe further intervention is necesary to ensure a peaceful resolution?

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What are the specific legal tactics the Maduro regime typically uses to disqualify opposition leaders like María Corina Machado?

The Escalating Tensions: A Direct Warning

Diosdado Cabello,a powerful figure within Venezuela’s ruling PSUV party and considered a key architect of the maduro regime,issued a stark warning regarding any potential moves against opposition leader María Corina Machado. The message, delivered publicly on September 7th, 2025, was blunt: “Do not even consider” any threats or actions targeting Machado. This statement comes amidst growing international concern over the political climate in Venezuela and increasing repression of dissent. The warning is widely interpreted as a response to escalating calls within hardline factions of the Chavista movement to disqualify Machado from future elections, possibly through fabricated criminal charges or judicial maneuvers.

María Corina Machado: A Rising Political Force

Machado’s prominence stems from her strong anti-Maduro stance and her success in the recent opposition primaries. She secured a landslide victory, garnering overwhelming support from a broad coalition of opposition groups. This victory, however, has been met with resistance from the Maduro government, which views her as a meaningful threat to its continued rule.

Key Factors contributing to Machado’s Popularity:

Strong anti-corruption platform.

Advocacy for free and fair elections.

Ability to mobilize widespread public support.

Perceived as a genuine choice to the current government.

The Regime’s Response: Disqualification Attempts & Legal Challenges

The Maduro regime has a history of utilizing legal and extra-legal tactics to suppress political opposition. Following Machado’s primary win,officials began hinting at potential investigations and disqualifications based on alleged administrative irregularities and past accusations. These tactics are consistent with a pattern of behavior aimed at undermining democratic processes and consolidating power.

Common Disqualification Tactics Employed by the Maduro Regime:

Fabricated corruption charges.

Disqualification based on alleged ties to “disloyal” elements.

manipulation of electoral regulations.

Use of the Attorney General’s office to pursue politically motivated cases.

International Reaction and Condemnation

The international community has largely condemned the potential persecution of Machado and the ongoing erosion of democratic norms in Venezuela. The united States, the European Union, and several latin American nations have expressed concern and called for a clear and fair electoral process.

Statements from Key International Actors (September 2025):

US State Department: Reiterated its support for a negotiated solution to the Venezuelan crisis and urged the Maduro regime to respect democratic principles.

European Union: Expressed deep concern over the targeting of opposition figures and called for the release of all political prisoners.

Institution of American States (OAS): Condemned the attempts to disqualify machado and called for independent international observers to be present during any future elections.

The Role of Diosdado Cabello: Power Broker and Hardliner

Diosdado Cabello’s warning carries significant weight due to his position as Vice President of the PSUV and his control over key institutions, including the military and intelligence services. He is widely considered the second most powerful figure in Venezuela, after Maduro himself. Cabello is known for his hardline stance against the opposition and his willingness to use any means necessary to maintain the regime’s grip on power. His direct intervention suggests a potential internal struggle within the Chavista movement regarding how to handle Machado’s growing influence.

Potential Scenarios and Future Outlook: Venezuela Political Crisis

Several scenarios could unfold in the coming months:

1. Continued Repression: The Maduro regime could intensify its efforts to disqualify Machado and suppress opposition activity, potentially leading to increased social unrest and international pressure.
2. Negotiated Solution: A dialog between the government and the opposition could be initiated, potentially leading to a compromise that allows Machado to participate in future elections. This scenario appears increasingly unlikely given the current political climate.
3. Escalation of Conflict: A breakdown in negotiations and a further crackdown on dissent could lead to a more violent confrontation between the government and the opposition.
4. International Intervention: Increased international pressure, including sanctions and diplomatic isolation, could force the maduro regime to reconsider its policies.

The impact on Venezuelan Elections & Democratic Processes

The situation surrounding María Corina Machado directly impacts the credibility and fairness of any future elections in Venezuela. Disqualifying a candidate who has demonstrably won the opposition primaries would further erode public trust in the electoral system and undermine the possibility of a peaceful and democratic transition of power. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, and any attempt to manipulate the electoral process could have serious consequences for Venezuela’s relationship with the rest of the world.The future of Venezuelan democracy hangs in the balance.

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