Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has stated her intention to lead Venezuela, anticipating a future opportunity she describes as “when the right time comes.” Her declaration follows the removal of President Nicolás Maduro from Caracas on January 3rd, as he now faces drugs and weapons charges in New York.
Political Maneuvering in Venezuela
Machado expressed her ambition to become Venezuela’s first female president, telling Fox News she believes she “will be elected when the right time comes.” This came after she presented President Donald Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize medal, framing it as recognition of his commitment to Venezuelan freedom. Despite Machado’s movement claiming victory in the 2024 elections, Trump has not endorsed her as the country’s new leader, citing concerns about her level of domestic support.
Instead, the US president has engaged directly with Delcy Rodríguez, who served as Maduro’s vice-president and is now acting as interim president. On Friday, Rodríguez held a two-hour meeting with the director of the CIA “at President Trump’s direction,” with discussions focused on building trust and potential economic collaboration. A US official stated the director discussed ensuring Venezuela would no longer serve as a safe haven for adversaries of the United States.
Competing Visions for Venezuela’s Future
While the US administration appears to be pursuing dialogue with Rodríguez, Machado remains confident in an “orderly transition” in Venezuela. She envisions a Venezuela that would become “the best ally the US has ever had in the Americas.” Machado characterized the current situation not as a personal conflict with Rodríguez, but as a challenge to a “criminal structure” representing the existing regime.
Meanwhile, in Caracas, Rodríguez delivered her first state of the union address as interim president, expressing a willingness to engage with the US “diplomatically, through political dialogue.” She also announced oil industry reforms intended to attract foreign investment, a departure from policies under Maduro. President Trump described Rodríguez as a “terrific person” following a phone conversation, which she characterized as “productive and courteous.” He also called Machado a “wonderful woman” and her gift of the Nobel Peace Prize medal a “wonderful gesture of mutual respect.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges does Nicolás Maduro face?
Nicolás Maduro faces various drugs and weapons charges in New York, following his removal from Caracas on January 3rd.
Who is currently serving as interim president of Venezuela?
Delcy Rodríguez, who previously served as Maduro’s vice-president, is currently serving as interim president.
Did President Trump endorse María Corina Machado as the new leader of Venezuela?
No, President Trump has declined to endorse Machado, stating she does not have enough domestic support.
As Venezuela navigates this period of political transition, will the pursuit of economic collaboration outweigh considerations of democratic legitimacy in the eyes of international actors?
