President Javier Milei hailed the successful extraction of five Venezuelan opposition activists who had been sheltering in the Argentine embassy in Caracas for over 400 days. In a statement, he expressed gratitude to the United States for its role in the operation, particularly acknowledging U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s personal commitment.

The activists—Magalli Meda, Claudia Macero, Omar González, Pedro Urruchurtu, and Humberto Villalobos—sought refuge in March 2024 to escape persecution by Nicolás Maduro’s regime due to their association with opposition leader María Corina Machado. During their time in the embassy, they endured harsh conditions, including power and water cuts, and constant surveillance by Venezuelan security forces.

While Venezuelan authorities portrayed the release as a negotiated agreement, sources indicate it was a coordinated operation led by the United States. The activists have since arrived safely in the U.S., where they were welcomed by officials and supporters.

President Milei reaffirmed Argentina’s commitment to securing the release of Nahuel Gallo, an Argentine gendarme detained in Venezuela since December 2024 on charges of terrorism. The Argentine government considers his detention unlawful and continues to work with international partners to ensure his freedom.

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