Venezuela's military chief raised concerns on Tuesday over a potential coup unfolding in the country, citing protests anticipated after President Nicolás Maduro secured victory in the contentious weekend election. The opposition claims to have won by a substantial margin, with reports of at least six fatalities amidst the post-election turmoil. Attorney General Tarek William Saab disclosed that 749 individuals have been arrested during the protests, warning that this number may increase, and stating that charges could include "resisting authority" and potentially terrorism.

Allegations of electoral irregularities and fraudulent results have sparked outrage among opposition leaders like Edmundo González and María Corina Machado, who assert that proof exists indicating a massive victory in favor of González. Despite exit polls suggesting Maduro's defeat, election officials declared his win, granting him a third consecutive term. The opposition has implored supporters to assemble peacefully and urged for calm amid the unrest. Meanwhile, Defense Minister General Vladimir Padrino reaffirmed the military's support for Maduro, denouncing the protests as an attempt at a coup which he vowed to thwart.

As tensions escalate, international criticism of Maduro and the National Electoral Council mounts. The Organization of American States censured the delays in releasing detailed precinct-level results, stressing the importance of upholding democratic processes and ensuring transparency in elections. Maduro, who assumed office in 2013, has presided over a period marked by economic hardship and rampant violence, prompting millions of Venezuelan citizens to flee the country. The dire situation has led many, like Blanca Sanchez, to seek refuge elsewhere, highlighting the urgency of addressing the country's political crisis.