Venezuela: Air restrictions keep María Corina Machado in Panama, opposition leader alleges

Panamanian authorities are holding Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, who claims the Venezuelan government has imposed flight restrictions to prevent her return to the country. Machado stated from Panama that her intention was to go back to Venezuela to help coordinate citizen efforts during the nation's emergency situation.

"The regime closed our country's airspace to try to prevent me from doing so," Machado declared, calling the situation "inconceivable" given Venezuela's current circumstances. She explained that while Venezuelan aviation authorities reportedly reversed a general flight cancellation, obstacles remain for companies and individuals attempting to facilitate her return.

Machado asserted that the travel ban is part of a broader pattern of restrictions affecting aid distribution, assistance teams, and access to information. "They want to block my return to Venezuela and that of thousands of compatriots who want to help," she said, also questioning limitations on media and support groups.

The opposition leader had planned to return on June 24 and remains "ready and close" to Venezuela, awaiting the opportunity. Machado reiterated her goal is to return to assist citizens during the emergency and help organize aid and reconstruction efforts, calling for unity among Venezuelan sectors both inside and outside the country.