Venezuela's Turning Point: Machado Speaks Out After Maduro's Arrest

In a surprising turn of events, Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela's president, and his wife were captured during a U. S. operation. This news sparked a strong response from María Corina Machado, a prominent opposition leader who has been largely out of sight for the past year. She released a powerful letter to the people of Venezuela, stating that Maduro will now face international justice for his alleged crimes. Machado, who recently received the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, emphasized that the time for freedom has arrived. She praised the U. S. government for taking action, as Maduro had refused to accept any negotiated solutions. Machado's letter was posted on X, but it's unclear if she is currently in Venezuela or still in Norway, where she secretly traveled last month. The opposition leader expressed her support for increased military pressure from the U. S. on Maduro's regime. She believes that this pressure is necessary to force Maduro to step down. Machado's letter calls for the restoration of order, the release of political prisoners, and the return of Venezuelan children who have fled the country.She also highlighted the importance of the democratic process, mentioning Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who was elected as the legitimate President of Venezuela. Machado urged all officers and soldiers to recognize Urrutia as the Commander-in-Chief of the National Armed Forces. Machado's letter is a call to action for all Venezuelans, both inside and outside the country. She encourages them to stay vigilant, organized, and ready to participate in the democratic transition. She also asks Venezuelans abroad to engage with governments and citizens worldwide to support the creation of a new Venezuela. In her closing remarks, Machado expressed her strength, confidence, and affection for the people of Venezuela. She assured them that they are not alone in this fight for freedom and democracy.