María Corina Machado Considered for Role in Venezuela's Political Transition by Trump Administration

On Friday, President Donald Trump praised Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, suggesting she could play a role in Venezuela's political transition following the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro.

Speaking from the White House, Trump lauded Machado as "an incredible woman" and confirmed that his administration is in communication with her.

"We are in talks with María, and perhaps we can involve her in some capacity. I would love to make that happen," the president stated when asked about the future political landscape of the South American nation.

This remark from the president comes amid Washington's efforts to establish a transitional government in Venezuela, provisionally led by Delcy Rodríguez, after the downfall of the chavista regime and Maduro's detention by U.S. forces on January 3.

Trump described Machado as "a very intelligent and brave person who loves her country," noting that "she has accomplished remarkable feats under very challenging circumstances."

"It's a pleasure to work with people like her," added Trump, reiterating his commitment to ensuring Venezuela becomes a "free and prosperous nation" once again.

The U.S. administration's outreach to Machado underscores recognition of the political influence of Vente Venezuela, the movement she leads, and her significant role in organizing domestic opposition during the chavista years.

María Corina Machado, politically disqualified by the chavista regime for over a decade, emerged as a prominent figure in the opposition movement, denouncing regime irregularities and demanding free elections.

In the wake of Maduro's capture, Machado has maintained a steadfast stance advocating for a democratic transition devoid of PSUV involvement.

Sources close to the transition process indicate that Washington is considering her potential involvement in advisory or mediation roles within the institutional rebuilding process, though her official participation in the new provisional government has yet to be finalized.

From Caracas, opposition leaders have welcomed the U.S. president's remarks as a sign of support for Venezuela's democratic forces.

The Trump administration, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, is at the forefront of efforts to stabilize Venezuela's political and economic landscape following the military operation that ended Maduro's rule.

Washington has reiterated that its primary objectives are the restoration of democratic freedoms, the release of political prisoners, and the organization of internationally supervised elections.