The Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize 2025, offered this Thursday in Oslo a press conference after his emergence from hiding, in which he addressed key issues such as the political situation in Venezuela the regime's stance Nicolás Maduro and the expectations for a democratic transition. Machado insisted that the recognition received is for all Venezuelans and reiterated her commitment to returning to the country once the necessary conditions are met.
During her speech, the leader denounced that the Venezuelan regime “has waged war” and relies on governments of Cuba , Russia and in terrorist organizations such as Hamas and Hezbollah. “And just as the regime relies on regimes around the world, we need the world’s democracies to support Venezuelans.”
Machado expressed her agreement with international actions that increasingly limit “collaboration with criminal groups,” such as the seizure of the oil tanker by the United States on Wednesday. She explained that the Chavista dictatorship, headed by Maduro uses Venezuela's oil resources for political persecution and torture , events already reported and investigated as state terrorism.
When asked about the possibility of an international military intervention, Machado responded that Venezuelan society has opted for an orderly and peaceful transition, and it is Maduro himself who “has declared war on the people.” Regarding his award, he stated that he respects the criticism and appealed for national unity:"I invite people to think about what is at risk in Venezuela and the need for unity in the country."
Machado stated that she was not involved in the government's decisions. USA regarding the defense of US territory, although he confirmed that he received support from that country to facilitate his trip to Oslo He avoided speculating on strategies or plans of international governments and criticized the lack of involvement of"some governments in Europe" in the Venezuelan crisis, while celebrating the support of most countries for his cause.
Regarding her return to Venezuela, the opposition leader clarified that it will be"as soon as possible," contingent on "optimal conditions," the completion of "necessary medical checkups," and possible meetings with international leaders. She explained that, despite remaining in hiding, she and her team are working on citizen organization and civil preparation to consolidate a democratic transition, emphasizing that her return does not necessarily depend on the departure of the Chavista regime.
Regarding the country's institutional future, Machado stated that"all" Venezuelan institutions must be refounded, committing to profound reforms in areas such as justice, the economy, and the promotion of international investment. She also maintained that the president-elect following last year's elections is Edmundo González Urrutia and highlighted the priority of institutional reconstruction.
Machado, visibly emotional She recounted her recent reunion with her children and recalled the plight of millions of families affected by political persecution and forced migration. She emphasized that the Venezuelan people's struggle has garnered significant international support. When asked about a possible future presidential candidacy, she responded in English:"One day at a time, first things first."
Machado's public appearance in Oslo was accompanied by displays of support from dozens of followers and the presence of the Norwegian Prime Minister. Jonas Gahr Støre She participated in an informal meeting with the media. The leader reiterated her commitment to defending democracy and the need for national unity to face the transition period in Venezuela.
