BOGOTA, Colombia

Venezuelan officials initiated an investigation against opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on treason charges.

It came after allegations she supported US sanctions targeting the government.

Attorney General Tarek William Saab indicated that Machado’s actions align with offenses outlined in the penal code and the Organized Crime and Terrorism Financing Law.

The investigation points to her endorsement of US policies designed to impose economic and political pressure on Venezuela.

Machado has publicly voiced support, particularly through social media platforms, for measures to hold the government accountable for the country’s problems.

She has pressed the US Congress to advance legislation like the Bolivar Act, which introduces new sanctions against the administration of President Nicolas Maduro.

The Bolivar Act, currently under discussion in the US House of Representatives, aims to intensify economic sanctions against Venezuela, marking a critical development in international pressure on the Maduro government.

Machado has expressed a commitment to advocating for a democratic transition and freedom in Venezuela, emphasizing her resolve to challenge the current leadership

Venezuela’s July 28 presidential election resulted in a third-term victory for Maduro, with 51.20% of the vote, according to the National Electoral Council.

Opposition groups have rejected the results, citing irregularities and alleging electoral fraud.

*Writing by Alperen Aktas