Maria Corina Machado's Unyielding Fight for Venezuelan Democracy

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump. Machado has played a key role in countering the regime of Nicolas Maduro and has been recognized for her efforts to promote democracy in Venezuela despite facing significant personal risk.

In a historic meeting set for Thursday, Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado will meet U.S. President Donald Trump. This comes after the U.S. deposed her longtime adversary, ex-President Nicolas Maduro, who was charged with drug trafficking.

Machado, an industrial engineer by training, has galvanized Venezuela's politically jaded populace, challenging Maduro's regime, which she accuses of corruption and repression. Her relentless efforts to restore democracy earned her the Nobel Prize, although she remains in exile, cautiously planning her return to Venezuela.

Despite being barred from running for president by Venezuela's highest court, Machado's influence persists. She had initially supported Edmundo Gonzalez, a candidate whose victory was undermined by alleged electoral manipulation. Her advocacy for human rights continues to resonate, gaining international support and sparking renewed hope for democratic reform in Venezuela.

(With inputs from agencies.)