From the halls of Washington, Maria Corina Machado, Venezuela’s fierce opposition figure, proclaimed her country teetering on freedom’s edge. Recent political upheavals and U.S. measures targeting Maduro have ignited a democratic dawn, she asserted during a riveting press briefing.
Recounting January 3, 2026, as a game-changing date, Machado declared, ‘We’re taking authentic first steps toward true democracy.’ At the Heritage Foundation, she marveled at her safety in America after enduring grave threats in Venezuela—a surreal escape from a land starved of essentials and free media.
The movement’s backbone, she said, lies in the people’s resilience. ‘Resource-less but resolute, they conquer brutality through faith and love’s unmatched power.’ Machado honored generations unfamiliar with democracy who staked their lives for honor, justice, and love, evoking images of orphaned children denied basics.
She showered thanks on Donald Trump and Americans for courageous intervention. Trump personally assured her of support in a meeting this week, a message she’ll carry home as the most vital.
The crisis ravages Venezuela: jailed dissidents, scattered exiles, and a malnutrition epidemic unseen in 100 years. Dismissing chaos worries, Machado stressed Venezuela’s exceptional unity—no fractures from faith, race, or region bind its 90% consensus to reclaim their future and kids.
Dignity via labor, not handouts, defines their aspiration, with women leading the charge for self-reliant lives. Post-transition, Venezuela will emerge America’s steadfast friend, she forecasted, evolving stably into a beacon of pride.
‘Freedom is coming to Venezuela, powered by U.S. support and President Trump,’ Machado vowed, inspiring hope across the diaspora.
