After nearly a year in exile, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado returned to Caracas amid the nation’s U.S.-led regime transition.
The Nobel laureate announced her return on X, writing, "I am here. With you."
¡Este día lo vamos a recordar siempre!
Juntos alcanzaremos la Libertad. 🇻🇪 https://t.co/WTpT1LChYl
— María Corina Machado (@MariaCorinaYA) October 26, 2026
After her announcement, Machado released a series of videos showing her parading through Caracas surrounded by several supporters.
Secretary Rubio Attributes Reconciliation Talks To Machado's Return
Secretary of State Marco Rubio championed Machado's return, praising the U.S.-backed reconciliation talks amid Venezuela's transition to democracy.
"The conditions allowing for the safe return of Ms. Machado to Venezuela is the direct result of the U.S. supported reconciliation talks, which has already seen hundreds of political prisoners freed and hundreds of political opposition figures return from exile," Secretary Rubio wrote. "The United States expects the freedoms of all sectors of Venezuelan politics to continue to be respected."
"Likewise, we expect all political actors to support these talks which represent the best chance Venezuela has had in thirty years to peacefully achieve not just a free and fair election but an enduring democracy," Secretary Rubio said.
Congressman Gimenez Celebrates Machado's Return
Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (R-Fla.) celebrated the feat, thanking President Donald Trump and Secretary Rubio for their roles on the matter.
Rep. Gimenez also took the opportunity to warn members of the Maduro regime against any potential harm or threats posed to Machado.
🚨#SOSVenezuela
My friend & Nobel Peace Prize Winner María Corina Machado has returned to Venezuela.
I want to make this very clear: From the U.S. Congress, I hold Delcy and Jorge Rodríguez, Diosdado Cabello, Padrino López, and González López directly responsible for any harm that may come to her.
If these corrupt thugs continue with the threats, they will end up pulverized like the Castro regime henchmen who guarded Maduro.
Are we clear?
— Rep. Carlos A. Gimenez (@RepCarlos) October 25, 2026
María Elvira Salazar Congratulates Machado's Feat
Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar congratulated Machado on her return and thanked the Trump administration for their role in removing Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro and laying the foundation for the nation's transition.
A great and glorious day for Venezuela!
María Corina is back home.
Credit to President Trump and Secretary Marco Rubio for helping pave the way for Venezuela’s return to democracy.
Today, hope returns to Venezuela.
¡Viva Venezuela libre! 🇻🇪 https://t.co/MDyrsFIBkL
— María Elvira Salazar 🇺🇸 (@MaElviraSalazar) October 25, 2026
Congressman Díaz-Balart Touts Historic Moment
Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart also touted Venezuela's historic moment, praising Machado for her avid role as the nation's opposition leader.
"María Corina Machado's return to Venezuela marks a historic moment for the Venezuelan people," Rep. Díaz-Balart wrote on X. "For years, María Corina has been the firmest and most tireless voice against the dictatorship."
"Her safety must be guaranteed at all times. The United States is watching closely and will not allow any threat against her. Today's event is a sign that the transition process is advancing, and that freedom and democracy in Venezuela are closer than ever. The Venezuelan people are not alone," Rep. Díaz-Balart added.
