Machado Honors Trump for Support of Venezuelan Democracy
Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Colina Machado has expressed her gratitude to President Donald Trump for his support of Venezuela’s democracy movement, even dedicating a Nobel Peace Prize to him. In a conversation with Fox News Digital, she remarked that Trump provided essential backing during a time when many Venezuelans felt overlooked by the world.
“I genuinely appreciate every gesture and moment that President Trump has shown in support of the Venezuelan people,” Machado noted. “I’ve closely followed his actions, and I understand how meaningful this is for those striving to restore democracy and freedom in our country.”
She further declared that a “free and democratic Venezuela is not just a dream, but closer than ever,” emphasizing that such a Venezuela is now echoing loudly in the hearts of its citizens. Machado added that the Nobel Peace Prize would also symbolize Trump’s influence, stating, “This award is dedicated to the people of Venezuela and to President Trump—both are emblems of the struggle for freedom and true leadership at pivotal moments.”
Machado’s Recent Public Appearance
Sources reveal that Machado aims to visit the U.S. to formally recognize Trump’s support for Venezuelans. Her public return followed a lengthy 11-month period of hiding due to escalating pressure from the Maduro administration, during which she was briefly detained amid anti-government protests in Caracas.
Her comeback coincided with the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony, where her daughter, Ana Colina Sosa, accepted the award on her behalf. Machado made a brief public appearance, waving to her supporters from a hotel balcony in Oslo, marking her first public engagement in nearly a year.
Political Challenges and Future Plans
Despite her significant win in the opposition primary, Machado has faced political barriers, being prevented from running for the presidency in 2024 — a decision criticized by Western governments. Roxanna Vigil from the Council on Foreign Relations commented on her popularity, stating that Machado garnered over 90% of the primary vote before being disqualified. “She represented a real challenge to the regime, and as a result, they sidelined her,” Vigil explained. Machado subsequently endorsed Edmundo González, who was declared the election winner, though independent tallies questioned the validity of the results.
Despite these setbacks, Machado has indicated she plans to return to Venezuela when it is safe to do so, continuing her advocacy for a peaceful transition away from Maduro’s regime.
