The United States has confirmed it will not obstruct the return of Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado to her home country. Deputy Assistant Secretary for South America Luis Mendez made this clear during a congressional hearing, emphasizing that the State Department's policy is to allow her return without hindrance. However, he cautioned that certain conditions must be met to ensure her safety upon arrival.
Background on Machado's Absence
Maria Corina Machado left Venezuela in December 2025 to receive her Nobel Peace Prize in Norway and has not returned since. Her attempts to return to Caracas have been thwarted by diplomatic pressure from Venezuela, particularly since the devastating double earthquakes on June 24, 2026.
US Diplomatic Efforts
Mendez revealed that the US government has been actively engaging with interim president Delcy Rodriguez to facilitate Machado's return. Rodriguez, who has been in power since the US-backed overthrow of then-president Nicolas Maduro in January 2026, announced plans to meet with opposition party members starting next month.
Conditions for Return
Despite the US stance, Mendez stressed the need for certain conditions to be in place to prevent Machado's arrest upon return. He highlighted ongoing efforts to create a safe environment for her homecoming.
