Venezuelan opposition protests demand elections and releases

Vente Venezuela organized nationwide protests across Venezuela on October 22, with thousands demanding an election timetable and the release of people they consider political prisoners. The demonstrations were described as the first nationwide opposition protest in nearly two years. Rallies took place in Caracas, Maracay, Valencia, San Cristóbal and Maracaibo, among other cities. Demonstrators waved Venezuelan flags and called for free elections and political changes. In Caracas, opposition supporters moved their gathering after the ruling Socialist Party held an earlier march from Plaza Venezuela toward the presidential palace. Security forces had a limited presence at protest sites, according to reports from the demonstrations. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez and U.S. President Donald Trump have both said elections will be held, but neither has announced a date for presidential or legislative voting. Trump said last month it was too soon to consider elections. The protests came as U.S.-backed talks between the government and an opposition faction continue without an agreement on a voting timetable. The negotiations include a faction led by Dinorah Figuera, but not the...