Skip to main content
Work with the NEU
Venezuela: Caracas in peace talks with jailed leader of opposition

VENEZUELA’S government has confirmed rumours of talks with a jailed opposition leader to end riots that claimed two more lives in Caracas on Wednesday.

The deaths of 17-year-old militant Neomar “Neon” Lander and National Guard Sergeant William Jose Mendoza in the capital brought the death toll to 83, according a tally by regional news network Telesur.

The right-wing opposition Democratic Unity Roundtable (Mud) coalition claimed that Mr Lander was a peaceful protester who was hit by a police tear-gas canister.

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Delcy Rodriguez
Venezuela / 14 August 2026
14 August 2026

Concessions to Washington by the post-Maduro leadership in Caracas are designed to preserve the core of the Bolivarian Revolution not betray it, argue Roger D Harris, Francisco Dominguez and Mara Paez Victor. How the solidarity movement responds is critical

Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodriguez (right) and US Interior Secretary Doug Burgum meet at Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas, Venezuela, March 4, 2026
Venezuela / 5 March 2026
5 March 2026
Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodriguez (centre) with Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello (right) and National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez after a press briefing at Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas, Venezuela, January 14, 2026
Venezuela / 15 January 2026
15 January 2026