Venezuela’s Machado says she will return to the country in the coming weeks
South China Morning Post
by Associated PressMarch 1, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, winner of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, has announced her plans to return to Venezuela in the coming weeks. Known for her advocacy for democratic transition, Machado made the announcement on social media, emphasizing her goal to prepare for “a new and gigantic electoral victory.” While she did not set a specific date for her return, her statement highlights her determination to strengthen Venezuelan unity and push for political change. This comes after nearly three months in exile, during which she has continued to rally support among opponents of the current government.
Machado’s announcement follows a significant milestone in her political career: winning the 2023 primaries, which established her as the opposition’s candidate against President Nicolas Maduro. In her message, she called on supporters to “strengthen the unity” that began during this process. However, her return is not without risks. Acting President Delcy Rodriguez, who assumed power after Maduro and his wife were captured in a U.S.-led operation earlier this year, has warned that Machado “will have to answer” if she returns. This suggests potential challenges await the opposition leader upon her return.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 3/1/2026