After Nearly a Year in Exile, Machado’s Return to Venezuela Tests Limits of U.S. Sway

A return reshapes the political landscape

Machado’s return marks a turning point in the Trump administration’s effort to influence politics in Venezuela, an oil-rich country. Her presence is changing the calculations around U.S. policy and the country’s political future.

Those questions include the administration’s pursuit of oil deals in Venezuela and calls for Washington to move faster toward a democratic transition. Machado must balance those demands with the need to establish her own leadership.

Competing claims to legitimacy

James B. Story, who served as U.S. ambassador to Venezuela from 2018 to 2023, contrasted the sources of authority claimed by Machado and Delcy. Story said Delcy’s legitimacy came from the White House, while Machado’s came from Venezuelans. Machado’s return has increased pressure for the government to move beyond a gradual easing of authoritarian rule. Story described the current approach as “milquetoast.”

Election plans remain unclear

The government has not set out a detailed plan for presidential elections, according to the article. Machado is seeking new elections, adding urgency to calls for a faster transition.

She also faces the challenge of pressing the Trump administration to accelerate that process without offending it. The balance between Washington’s influence and Machado’s leadership is now central to the political debate.