Political tensions continue to escalate in Venezuela following the recent decision by the country's Supreme Court to ban opposition leader Maria Machado from running for president. This move has sparked criticism from both the United States and the Venezuelan opposition, who argue that the Maduro government has violated a previously agreed-upon deal for free and fair elections in exchange for sanctions relief.
In a ruling on Friday, the Supreme Court, which is under the control of President Nicolas Maduro's ruling party, disqualified Machado and imposed a 15-year ban on her holding any public office, citing corruption charges. However, Machado firmly denies these allegations and accuses the government of breaking its word.
