Story perspectives

Venezuelan Leader's Daring Escape to Accept Nobel Prize

1/18/2026

Left

Machado Escapes Safely

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado escaped the country in December 2025 with assistance from the US-based Grey Bull Rescue team.
A video captured her boarding a boat in the Caribbean after nearly a year in hiding to accept her Nobel Peace Prize in Norway.
Machado thanked Grey Bull, stating, “I am alive, I’m safe,” and acknowledged support from the US government without providing details.
Grey Bull founder Bryan Stern noted the operation was funded by anonymous donors and involved communication with the US military, but lacked official government support.

Right

Rodriguez Consolidates Power

Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodriguez consolidates power after Nicolás Maduro's capture.
In her first address on January 15, she pledged unity and to increase oil production.
She appointed Major-General Gustavo Gonzalez to lead the military counter-intelligence agency DGCIM.
The move targets Diosdado Cabello, a significant internal threat.
The United States continues to pressure Cabello and urges him to face justice as a step toward democracy.

1 of 2

Machado Escapes Safely

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado escaped the country in December 2025 with assistance from the US-based Grey Bull Rescue team.
A video captured her boarding a boat in the Caribbean after nearly a year in hiding to accept her Nobel Peace Prize in Norway.
Machado thanked Grey Bull, stating, “I am alive, I’m safe,” and acknowledged support from the US government without providing details.
Grey Bull founder Bryan Stern noted the operation was funded by anonymous donors and involved communication with the US military, but lacked official government support.

1 / 2