Venezuela opposition leader Maria Corina Machado returns to Venezuela
The issue of Machado's return has strained her relationship with the US, which she has sought to cultivate as an ally since before it removed President Nicolas Maduro from power.
Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has returned to her homeland after more than a year in exile, she announced on social media on Sunday. "I am here. With you all," the Nobel Peace Prize laureate wrote.
Images of Machado were shared by her press team showing her in a central-western town in Lara state, where she participated in a church event. "Estoy aquí. Con ustedes," was posted alongside the photos.
However, her return has created tension with the Trump administration in the United States. President Trump has been a vocal supporter of interim President Delcy Rodriguez, who succeeded the ousted Nicolas Maduro. Machado had sought to build a relationship with the U.S. as she sought refuge there after Maduro's government barred her from leaving Venezuela.
In September, Trump stated that it was premature to contemplate elections in Venezuela. Speaking at the White House on Sunday, Trump said he had no prior knowledge of Machado's return and reiterated his continued backing for Rodriguez. "She's a very nice woman," Trump said of Machado, but added that the U.S. was handling Venezuela "really well."
The White House and Venezuelan government did not immediately comment on Machado's return. Machado stated that she intends to meet with earthquake victims, families of political prisoners, and other leaders from Venezuela's democratic movement. She expressed a commitment to working towards free and fair elections.
Rodriguez and U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright recently signed agreements to expand energy projects in Venezuela. Machado has insisted that only a "serious, democratic government" can provide the necessary stability for investors.
Machado fled Venezuela secretly in late 2025 to receive her Nobel Peace Prize, having spent over a year in hiding to avoid persecution by Maduro's regime. Her desire to return has caused friction with U.S. officials, who had asked her to postpone her trip. No further details about her current whereabouts were disclosed.
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