Story perspectives

Venezuelan Leader Backs Trump, Urges U.S. Pressure for Change

12/14/2025

Summary

Story summary

María Corina Machado, a Venezuelan opposition leader, expressed support for President Donald Trump's strategy against Nicolás Maduro in her first U.S. interview since winning the Nobel Peace Prize.
She says increased U.S. pressure is essential for regime change.
Machado notes that over 70% of Venezuelans support this transition.
Machado, who recently escaped Venezuela, plans to return despite prosecution risks.

History

Historical Context

The 2004 Venezuelan recall referendum against President Hugo Chávez highlighted significant political divisions, with 58% of voters supporting the recall. Despite the opposition's claims of fraud, international observers, including the Carter Center, deemed the election fair. María Corina Machado's advocacy for U.S. intervention reflects ongoing struggles for democracy in Venezuela, echoing past efforts to challenge authoritarianism since the 1999 constitutional reforms.

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Story summary

María Corina Machado, a Venezuelan opposition leader, expressed support for President Donald Trump's strategy against Nicolás Maduro in her first U.S. interview since winning the Nobel Peace Prize.
She says increased U.S. pressure is essential for regime change.
Machado notes that over 70% of Venezuelans support this transition.
Machado, who recently escaped Venezuela, plans to return despite prosecution risks.

1 / 2