Caracas is witnessing a delicate shift in its political climate as opposition leader María Corina Machado publicly assesses the prospect of returning to Venezuela, emboldened by perceived U.S. pressure on the Maduro goverment. this comes amid a renewed diplomatic push from Washington, marked by the recent reopening of the U.S.embassy after a seven-year closure and a general amnesty announced by the Venezuelan government-steps signaling a potential thaw in historically fraught relations. Machado’s comments, and a surprising statement of support from former President Donald Trump, reflect the complex dynamics currently at play in the South American nation.
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado stated Sunday she does not believe her life is currently in danger if she returns to Venezuela, citing pressure from the United States on the government led by Delcy Rodríguez.
The situation marks a potential shift in the political landscape of Venezuela, where opposition figures have historically faced threats and repression. “Things are changing very quickly in Venezuela,” Machado said in an interview with CBS News. “If they had captured me before I left, they probably would have disappeared me or something worse.”
Machado, who currently resides in Washington, expressed her desire to return to the South American nation as soon as possible. She believes the U.S. presence and actions are deterring the government from harming her. “At this moment, I don’t think they dare to kill me because of the presence, the pressure, and the actions of the United States,” she added.
While confident in her immediate safety, Machado acknowledged uncertainty about her ability to move freely within Venezuela. She asserted that the ruling socialist party, known as Chavismo, “would be very afraid” to attack her, knowing of her connections to the administration of Donald Trump.
On Saturday, Trump suggested he could “bring the parties together” to find common ground when asked about Machado’s potential return to Venezuela. “We have to do something about this. Maybe bring the parties together and do something. She (Machado) is a very good person and, at the same time, the current leadership (Delcy Rodríguez) is doing a very good job,” Trump stated.
The developments come as the United States moves to re-establish diplomatic ties with Venezuela. U.S. Ambassador Laura Dogu arrived in Caracas on Saturday to reopen the U.S. diplomatic mission, which had been closed for seven years following a breakdown in relations.
Her arrival followed an announcement by Delcy Rodríguez of a general amnesty for all political prisoners and the closure of El Helicoide, a detention center widely condemned for its history of torture and human rights abuses. The announcement could influence future diplomatic talks and potentially lead to further easing of tensions between the two countries.
