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Venezuela Opposition Leader Claims Presidency as U.S. Signals Shift Toward New Leadership
MLN — 19 JAN 2026: Venezuela’s sidelined opposition leader María Corina Machado said she expects to become the country’s first elected female president, even as the United States signals a willingness to work with new governing authorities following the removal of Nicolás Maduro earlier this month.
Machado made the remarks in a televised interview, saying she believes Venezuela is moving toward freedom after years of economic turmoil and harsh ruling. Her comments came a day after she publicly presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to President Donald Trump, praising what she described as decisive U.S. action against Maduro.
Despite Machado’s confidence, reviewers say the Trump administration has largely shifted away from her opposition movement since Maduro’s removal on Jan. 3. U.S. officials have instead indicated support for a transitional leadership led by Maduro’s former vice president, Delcy Rodríguez, who is now serving as acting president with backing from senior figures within the former government.
U.S. officials have acknowledged engaging with Rodríguez and other power brokers as part of an effort to stabilize Venezuela and prevent institutional collapse. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the administration believes cooperation with those currently controlling security forces is necessary to move the country toward representative government while avoiding chaos.
Machado’s movement is widely believed by supporters to have won Venezuela’s 2024 presidential election, though she has not been recognized by Washington as part of the current governing framework. Analysts say U.S. officials have raised concerns about whether her camp could manage security risks involving the military and armed groups.
The evolving U.S. approach was underscored by a visit to Caracas this week by CIA Director John Ratcliffe, who met with Venezuelan officials to signal a potential reset in relations. U.S. officials said the visit was intended to convey interest in improving cooperation.
Rodríguez has said her administration seeks better ties with Washington and has already taken steps aligned with U.S. priorities, including opening Venezuela’s oil sector to American companies. The first U.S. deportation flight since Maduro’s removal arrived in Caracas on Friday.
Political analysts say Machado remains popular among opposition supporters but appears sidelined as U.S. policy focuses on short-term stability and strategic interests in Venezuela.
