High-Stakes Meeting Between Trump and Machado: Shaping Venezuela's Future

U.S. President Donald Trump held a significant meeting with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. Their discussion focused on Venezuela's political future, democratization hopes, and economic rebuilding. Machado, recently awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, advocates for a role in Venezuela's governance. The White House remains skeptical of her influence in the country.

U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in a critical encounter with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, aiming to influence the political trajectory of the South American country. Machado, who daringly escaped Venezuela by sea in December, is vying for recognition amid internal and external political dynamics.

This face-to-face meeting marked a first for Trump and Machado, with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt describing it as a hopeful and constructive opportunity. Leavitt noted that Trump was eager to hear Machado's insights about the on-ground realities in Venezuela.

The meeting comes as Trump and others express doubt about Machado's capacity to lead, despite hopes for democratization post-Maduro's capture. Trump has praised Delcy Rodriguez, Venezuela's interim president, while Machado, now a Nobel Laureate, discusses the future U.S. role and her potential governance contributions in Venezuela.

(With inputs from agencies.)