Corina Machado Returns to Venezuela After Nearly a Year in Exile
Return confirmed, details withheld
Machado’s team confirmed her return to CBS News on Sunday. The opposition leader has not disclosed her current location or the route she took back to Venezuela. A statement said Machado returned to support Venezuelans seeking freedom, democracy and justice, and to advance a peaceful, inclusive transition toward free, fair and verifiable presidential elections with guarantees for all. The speaker thanked President Trump, the U.S. government and others for their continued support.
A year away from home
Edmundo Gonzalez, a former presidential candidate for Machado’s movement who lives in Spain, also confirmed her return on social media. He said he would be beside her “very soon,” and described the day as important for Venezuelans.
Supporters welcome her back
People greeted Machado with cries of “Welcome to Venezuela!” One woman wiped away tears and called her return “a miracle,” while another put her hands to her face as Machado entered a church. Asked about the return Sunday, President Trump said, “I don’t know anything about it,” adding that he hoped Machado was safe. He also said she had given him her Nobel Prize.
Uncertain political path
Machado’s homecoming comes as doubts deepen about Venezuela’s democratic future and the U.S. role there. Rodríguez has served longer than the period she was authorized to act as president following Maduro’s capture, and no election is scheduled. In September, Machado was denied entry to Venezuela three times within 24 hours, according to a statement from Smoalnsky shared with CBS News’ Margaret Brennan and other journalists.
Key points
- Machado returned to Venezuela after nearly a year in exile, her team confirmed Sunday.
- She has not disclosed her location or how she re-entered the country.
- Former presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez said he would join her soon.
- Rodríguez has exceeded her authorized acting-presidency term, and no election is scheduled.