Story perspectives

Venezuelan Leader Escapes Danger to Accept Nobel Prize

12/15/2025

Summary

Story summary

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado escaped Nicolás Maduro’s regime to accept the Nobel Peace Prize in Norway on December 11, 2025.
Her escape involved navigating ten military checkpoints and a dangerous boat ride across the Caribbean, organized by the Grey Bull Rescue Foundation.
Machado had been in hiding for over a year and faced risks from potential U.S. military airstrikes targeting drug traffickers.
Upon arriving in Oslo, she reaffirmed her commitment to return to Venezuela and continue her fight for democracy.

History

Historical Context

The Venezuelan presidential crisis began on January 10, 2019, when Juan Guaidó, president of the National Assembly, declared himself interim president, contesting Nicolás Maduro's disputed 2018 election. Guaidó's claim gained recognition from 54 countries, including the U.S. However, Maduro's regime remained resilient, leading to ongoing political turmoil and humanitarian crises, with over seven million Venezuelans fleeing since 2015.

1 of 2

Story summary

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado escaped Nicolás Maduro’s regime to accept the Nobel Peace Prize in Norway on December 11, 2025.
Her escape involved navigating ten military checkpoints and a dangerous boat ride across the Caribbean, organized by the Grey Bull Rescue Foundation.
Machado had been in hiding for over a year and faced risks from potential U.S. military airstrikes targeting drug traffickers.
Upon arriving in Oslo, she reaffirmed her commitment to return to Venezuela and continue her fight for democracy.

1 / 2