US, Spain, Czech Republic demand info on detained nationals in Venezuela

On Monday, the United States, Spain, and the Czech Republic demanded information from Venezuela regarding the detention of six of their citizens. These individuals were arrested amid allegations of a plot to assassinate President Nicolas Maduro, with the Venezuelan government claiming ties to US and Spanish intelligence agencies. The arrests included three Americans, two Spaniards, and one Czech, with Venezuelan authorities stating that 400 rifles were seized during the operation. The situation escalated following the July 28 presidential elections, which the opposition claims were fraudulent. The US and Spain have denied any involvement in the alleged assassination plot, with the US State Department confirming the detention of a military member and two additional US citizens. Both countries are actively seeking more information about their detained nationals. Spain's foreign ministry has requested verified details about the charges against its citizens, asserting that they are not affiliated with the CNI intelligence service. Meanwhile, the Czech Republic has also reached out to Venezuela for consular contact regarding its detained citizen. The lack of clarity surrounding the charges and the status of the detainees raises concerns about their legal rights and treatment. This incident is part of a broader pattern of tensions between Venezuela and Western nations, particularly following the controversial elections. The situation reflects ongoing geopolitical conflicts and the Venezuelan government's strained relations with both the US and European countries, further complicating diplomatic efforts in the region.