María Corina Machado, the prominent Venezuelan opposition figure, landed in Caracas on Sunday after more than ten months away from the country. Her arrival followed a series of failed entry attempts that were reportedly delayed by the United States, which has long been involved in the political saga surrounding her return.
Machado posted on X, "I am here. With you," as she was photographed attending Mass in the state of Lara, surrounded by supporters who hugged and clasped her hands. From there she travelled in a convoy of cheering followers to the capital, where she was photographed smiling from a car’s sunroof as she entered Caracas late Sunday night.
Former presidential candidate Edmundo González confirmed her arrival, writing, "I am thrilled to announce to you that our leader, my dear María Corina, is on Venezuelan soil. Today is a very important day for Venezuelans. Our sovereign voice returns with her to lead and guide this process!" He added that he would soon join her to advance the country toward freedom.
Machado’s return follows a history of political persecution. After winning an independent presidential primary in 2023 with over 90 % of the vote, she was barred from running by the Maduro government, which accused her of fraud and tax violations. She fled to Norway in January to accept the Nobel Peace Prize, after which President Nicolás Maduro was seized by U.S. forces and is now jailed in New York on various charges.
While her spokesperson, David Smolansky, hailed her return as a major step toward democratic transition, U.S. President Donald Trump said he was unaware of the details, adding that he hoped Machado was safe. Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised U.S. involvement in the reconciliation talks that paved the way for her safe return.
It remains unclear what Machado’s next political move will be, though she has previously stated she would run for president again if an election were held. Her presence in Venezuela is seen by supporters as a potential catalyst for free, fair, and verifiable elections in the near future.
