Opposition leader and Nobel laureate María Corina Machado reappeared in Venezuela Sunday for the first time since December, returning from exile at a time when doubts about the country’s democratic future — and the role of the U.S. — are growing, reports BritPanorama.
This appearance follows the U.S. military’s ousting of President Nicolás Maduro, replaced by an interim president who has now exceeded her term without a scheduled election. Machado announced her arrival on social media, stating, “I am here. With you.” Another prominent opposition figure, Edmundo González, also confirmed her return via social media, expressing anticipation to stand alongside her soon. He described the day as significant, emphasizing the importance of her return in leading the opposition’s cause.
Venezuela run by Maduro ally backed by the Trump administration
Upon her return, Machado received a warm welcome, entering a church west of Caracas to applause from her supporters, many of whom recorded the moment on their cell phones. “María! María!” they chanted, celebrating her presence.
U.S. President Donald Trump commented on Machado’s return, expressing support but noting he was unfamiliar with the details. He emphasized Machado’s kindness and hope for her safety, while affirming that the U.S. was achieving progress in Venezuela.
Since Maduro’s ousting, the Venezuelan government has been led by acting President Delcy Rodríguez, who was initially expected to serve for 90 days but has remained in power, without calling for elections. Machado had been a vocal critic of this arrangement and was briefly detained in January 2025 after protesting Maduro’s planned inauguration.
Following her escape from the country, Machado reemerged in December in Norway, where she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her peaceful resistance against the Maduro government. She has been demanding a date for presidential elections in Venezuela, while U.S. officials have focused on economic stabilization as a prerequisite.
Credible evidence shows the opposition won the last election
In October 2023, Machado aimed to contest the presidential election but faced disqualification from running. Her place on the ballot was taken by González, who reportedly won by more than a 2-to-1 margin against Maduro, though the ruling-party-dominated National Electoral Council declared Maduro the victor. The electoral process faced widespread criticism for human rights violations, including political repression.
In January, the U.S. military apprehended Maduro in Caracas regarding drug-related charges. This decision sparked discontent among many Venezuelans, particularly in light of the Trump administration’s cooperation with Rodríguez rather than Machado.
Machado has demanded a date for a presidential election
Determined to return, Machado made several attempts to do so, but faced significant obstacles. Her team has alleged government interference in her efforts to come back, claims that Venezuelan officials deny. Although Trump administration representatives assert they have never obstructed Machado, they caution her about safety concerns.
After Maduro was deposed, Rodríguez was permitted to serve as acting president temporarily, a term that was not extended by the National Assembly. Machado and her allies have consistently urged Rodríguez to announce a date for presidential elections. In a recent speech, Rodríguez stated that the timing for elections will be determined through national consensus.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the necessity of stabilizing Venezuela’s economy before new elections, acknowledging Machado’s right to return to her homeland. Demonstrations by Machado’s supporters in Caracas have been ongoing, reflecting her continued influence amid a politically charged environment.
The intricate dynamics surrounding Venezuela’s political landscape remain in flux, echoing both local and international concerns. In this context, Machado’s return and its implications for the opposition’s future are yet to unfold.
