Machado's Pursuit of Democratic Transition in Venezuela

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado expressed confidence in dismantling the 'criminal regime' in Venezuela and transitioning to free elections. After meeting with President Trump, she emphasized an orderly path to elections, despite current U.S. support for interim President Delcy Rodriguez, prioritizing access to Venezuela's oil resources.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 16-01-2026 23:01 IST | Created: 16-01-2026 23:01 IST
Machado's Pursuit of Democratic Transition in Venezuela
Machado

In a determined bid to see democracy restored in Venezuela, opposition leader Maria Corina Machado expressed confidence in dismantling what she described as a 'criminal regime' and seeing a transition to free elections. Speaking in Washington following a meeting with President Donald Trump, Machado sought U.S. support for the opposition's role in shaping Venezuela's future post-Maduro.

Despite Trump favoring interim President Delcy Rodriguez's temporary leadership for the OPEC nation, prioritizing U.S. interests in Venezuela's oil reserves, Machado remains adamant about an orderly transition. She asserted that current tensions with Rodriguez were not detrimental to the ultimate goal of elections, which she believes will occur through a complex process over time.

Machado's strategic meeting with Trump, including her symbolic gesture of presenting her Nobel Peace Prize medal to him, underlined her political acumen. Although Trump has not backed Machado's immediate leadership, he acknowledged her struggles, praising her resilience. The situation remains fluid as both sides navigate the geopolitical implications of Venezuela's political future.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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