Venezuela Opposition Leader Refuses US-Backed Talks

Venezuela Opposition Leader Refuses US-Backed Talks

Venezuela opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has refused to participate in US-backed talks with the de facto government of Delcy Rodriguez. Machado cited concerns over the legitimacy of the talks, which she believes are an attempt to impose a US-backed government on Venezuela. The talks were scheduled to take place in August, but Machado's decision has cast doubt on the prospects of a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The US had hailed the talks as an important step towards political reconciliation in Venezuela, but Machado's refusal has raised concerns over the ability of the US to broker a deal.