Nobel Peace Prize laureate María Corina Machado spoke at a press conference in Oslo, Norway, on Thursday, December 11, 2025. Her appearance follows the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife in Caracas. This event raises questions about the future leadership of Venezuela.
Machado, a prominent opposition leader, has urged the recognition of Edmundo González as Venezuela’s rightful leader. González is seen by many as the legitimate winner of the 2024 presidential election.
Who Is María Corina Machado?
Machado gained international recognition after receiving the Nobel Peace Prize last year. She has long criticized the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) since it first came to power under Hugo Chávez in 1998. The Nobel committee honored her for striving to bring about a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy in Venezuela. Her outspoken criticism of Maduro’s regime earned her the nickname “Iron Lady” among supporters.
Her support for President Trump has been evident; she dedicated her Nobel Prize to him and supported U.S. actions against drug trafficking by Venezuelan boats. She also backs U.S. pressure on Maduro, linking it to political and economic failures that have caused 20% of Venezuelans to leave the country.
US Position and Maduro’s Capture
Despite Machado’s popularity, Trump stated on Saturday that he had not been in touch with her since military actions in Caracas. He expressed doubt about her ability to lead Venezuela, questioning her domestic support and respect.
In a statement, Machado praised Maduro’s capture, emphasizing the importance of facing international justice for crimes against Venezuelan citizens and others. She credited U.S. actions for maintaining legal pressure on Maduro.
Machado continued her call for unity around González, advocating for a collective effort to enforce their mandate and achieve a Democratic Transition. This movement, she noted, requires the participation of all Venezuelans.
Election Manipulation and Future Prospects
In the 2024 election, Machado was barred from running by the Maduro regime, but she supported González instead. International observers reported that Maduro manipulated the election results to secure a third term, maintaining his grip on power.
Now in Europe after escaping with help from U.S. veterans, Machado remains determined in her fight against Maduro’s influence. She continues to call for organization and vigilance among Venezuelans to bring about change.