Venezuela's opposition leader Maria Corina Machado returns to the country after 10 months in exile. She announced her arrival on social media, writing, 'I am here. With you.' Her return comes as tensions over democracy and political reforms continue to escalate.
Machado, who won the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to challenge President Nicolas Maduro, re-emerged in Norway last December. She was protected by a U.S. rescue team when she left Venezuela in January 2026. Acting President Delcy Rodriguez has remained in office beyond her 90-day term and has not called for elections despite public demand.
Rodriguez's presidency has extended beyond the 90-day period she was authorized to serve. The U.S. maintains that Venezuela is not ready for elections, while thousands of Venezuelans have protested for democratic reforms. Machado's return is seen as a significant step in the ongoing political struggle, though her leadership remains under scrutiny.