Venezuelan Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado Returns to Public Eye

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado made her first public appearance in 11 months on December 11, 2025, after escaping her homeland and arriving in Oslo, Norway. Her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa, accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf, awarded for her efforts in promoting democracy in Venezuela against President Nicolas Maduro's authoritarian regime.

Machado had been in hiding since January 9, 2025, following a brief detention during a protest in Caracas. In her public debut, she addressed supporters, expressing her commitment to returning to Venezuela, stating she would do so when conditions are safe, regardless of whether Maduro is still in power.

This moment was seen as a signal of hope for many Venezuelans, with Machado emphasizing that her recognition serves as a message that they are not alone in their fight for freedom. Notably, she credited U.S.

President Donald Trump's actions for weakening Maduro's regime, though she avoided discussing military intervention. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre welcomed her, affirming Norway's support for Venezuela's democratic aspirations.

Machado's journey to Oslo included a flight from Bangor, Maine, with details of her escape remaining undisclosed due to safety concerns for those involved.