María Corina Machado, a leading voice of the Venezuelan opposition, delivered a stark warning to the U.S. government: those currently representing Venezuela in negotiations do not speak for its people. She specifically cautioned against equating Delcy Rodríguez, a key ally of the former regime, with the desires of the Venezuelan citizenry or its armed forces.
Machado described Rodríguez as deeply aligned with adversarial global powers – Russia, China, and Iran – but insisted this allegiance doesn’t reflect the true sentiment within Venezuela. She acknowledged a complex situation, noting that remnants of the previous government continue to operate, even after the capture of Nicolás Maduro earlier this month.
Despite these challenges, Machado expressed unwavering confidence in an eventual, orderly transition of power. She envisions a future Venezuela, free from its past constraints, becoming a steadfast and invaluable ally to the United States within the Americas.
Her comments surfaced amidst reports of a clandestine meeting between CIA Director John Ratcliffe and Delcy Rodríguez in Caracas. Discussions reportedly centered on intelligence sharing, economic stabilization, and preventing Venezuela from serving as a sanctuary for U.S. adversaries.
Simultaneously, Rodríguez announced a new initiative: the release of political prisoners held under Maduro’s rule, framing it as a “new political moment.” This followed the liberation of at least four American citizens detained in Venezuela, the first such release since Maduro’s removal.
Machado passionately asserted that the Venezuelan people are united by shared values, but have been forced into desperate circumstances by the previous regime. She believes a free Venezuela will naturally align with the United States, offering a powerful partnership in the region.
Following Maduro’s capture, President Trump stated the U.S. would temporarily oversee Venezuela, though specific plans for a power transfer remain undefined. While Trump met with Machado, he has yet to fully endorse her leadership, questioning her level of popular support.
Despite this hesitation, Machado publicly praised Trump and his administration, emphasizing their crucial role in Venezuela’s future. She assured her audience that freedom for Venezuela is within reach, contingent upon continued support from the United States and its president.
Machado also conveyed the deep gratitude of the Venezuelan people for the daring operation that led to Maduro’s capture, acknowledging the “courage” it required to execute such a mission. The Venezuelan people are looking towards a brighter future, one built on freedom and strong alliances.
