Cuban-American Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar has voiced her support for María Corina Machado, the recent Nobel Peace Prize recipient, by delivering fiery remarks against the Venezuelan regime. Salazar declared that Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro is "terrified" and that his regime's collapse is inevitable.
"Cockroaches never want to die, but the great exterminator named Donald Trump is coming with a well-filled tank ready to wipe them all out," Salazar remarked to Politico after being approached for her thoughts on the award given to the Venezuelan opposition leader.
Salazar, who represents Florida, stated that the Nobel Prize elevates Machado to an “untouchable” status, paralleling her with historical figures like Simón Bolívar and George Washington. "This is a glorious moment. Machado is not only the George Washington of this era for Venezuelans," she asserted.
The congresswoman also noted that her phone "is ringing off the hook" since the Nobel announcement, which she claims underscores the geopolitical impact of the award and the extensive support Machado has garnered in both the United States and Latin America.
Salazar's comments come in response to Diosdado Cabello, a key figure in the Chavista movement, who accused her and Machado of having ties to drug trafficking. On her X account, Salazar retorted, "It's laughable and embarrassing that a corrupt, oppressive narco-military like Cabello accuses us of drug trafficking. The regime is desperate."
She further stated that the Chavista regime is acting out of "nervousness and terror" because "the United States has never been more determined to dismantle the transnational criminal operation that he and Maduro lead."
Salazar’s statements and Machado’s rising prominence occur amidst increased military tensions in the Caribbean, following the deployment of U.S. ships and troops in what Washington describes as a counter-narcotics operation, but which Caracas perceives as a direct threat. Maduro has complained to the UN about the presence of a U.S. missile cruiser and a nuclear submarine near Venezuelan waters.
Understanding the Political Tensions in Venezuela
Why is Nicolás Maduro considered to be in a precarious position?
Maduro is seen as vulnerable due to increasing international pressure, internal dissent, and his regime's alleged involvement in criminal activities, making his hold on power unstable.
What significance does the Nobel Peace Prize have for María Corina Machado?
The Nobel Peace Prize significantly boosts Machado's profile, offering her greater protection and influence, and symbolizing global recognition of her efforts against the Venezuelan regime.
How has the U.S. military presence affected Venezuelan politics?
The U.S. military presence has escalated tensions, with Venezuela viewing it as a direct threat, while the U.S. claims it's a move to curb drug trafficking in the region.