Venezuela Opposition Leader Calls for Leadership Amid Political Turmoil

Thu Jan 08 2026 15:58:49 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

María Corina Machado asserts she should lead Venezuela, expressing distrust in the newly appointed interim president after the US ousted Nicolás Maduro.

In a bold statement following the US military action that ousted Nicolás Maduro, opposition leader María Corina Machado declared her right to lead Venezuela. Machado criticized the interim president as lacking credibility and vowed to serve the Venezuelan people. Despite her ambitions, US President Trump has voiced doubts about her popularity and capability.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has stated that she should absolutely be in charge of the country, following the recent ousting of President Nicolás Maduro by US forces.

In an interview with CBS, Machado expressed confidence in her ability to govern, stating, We are ready and willing to serve our people as we have been mandated. She praised US President Donald Trump for his decisive actions in Caracas but expressed skepticism about the leadership of Maduro's appointed successor.

While Machado and her movement claimed victory in the disputed elections of 2024, she has not received Trump's full endorsement, who suggested she lacks the necessary support within Venezuela.

Machado, who received a Nobel Peace Prize last year, described the recent US military intervention as a significant move towards the restoration of democracy in Venezuela. She acknowledged the impact of Trump's actions in bringing Maduro to justice.

Despite her aspirations, Trump's remarks about her viability as a leader have cast doubt on her future role, highlighting the complexities of Venezuelan politics. Machado has openly criticized interim leader Delcy Rodríguez, calling her a key figure in the repression of dissent in Venezuela.

Rodríguez, who assumed power amidst the upheaval, has rejected allegations of foreign control of Venezuela, insisting that her government is legitimate. The tension between these opposing narratives continues to shape the political landscape in Venezuela.