Venezuelan Opposition Leader Alleges Son-in-Law Kidnapped

Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo González announced that his son-in-law, Rafael Tudares, was abducted in Caracas Tuesday morning. Tudares was intercepted while taking his children, aged 6 and 7, to school. In a social media post, González described the abductors as "hooded men, dressed in black" who forced Tudares into a "gold-colored van." There has been no additional information on the condition of his grandchildren.

The incident occurs amid rising tensions in Venezuela, with the next presidential term set to commence on Friday. Both González and President Nicolás Maduro claim victory in last year's contested presidential election. The Venezuelan government has yet to comment on the alleged kidnapping, leaving questions unanswered as the country's political landscape becomes increasingly volatile.

González, a retired diplomat, is currently traveling across the Americas to garner support for his campaign to displace Maduro. He met with US President Biden on Monday at the White House, highlighting the international dimension of his campaign. The abduction may further strain Venezuelan political dynamics, which are already marked by division and unrest. As González seeks backing from global powers, this incident underscores the challenges faced by opposition figures in Venezuela. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)