Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado said she intends to return to Venezuela soon and renewed her call for a free and fair presidential election, arguing that her movement would win overwhelmingly under democratic conditions. Speaking after the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. authorities, Machado said the opposition is prepared to lead a political transition, but warned that key institutions in Venezuela remain under the control of ruling Socialist Party loyalists.

Machado, who left Venezuela last year and remains wanted for arrest, said she has not confirmed when or how she would return. She claimed the opposition won the 2024 election despite alleged irregularities, and said new elections should follow meaningful political reforms, including the release of hundreds of political prisoners.

While Machado praised U.S. President Donald Trump for his actions against Maduro, she expressed disappointment over indications that Washington may work with interim President Delcy Rodríguez and other senior officials from Maduro’s government to preserve stability. Machado described Rodríguez as closely tied to corruption, repression and foreign powers, and said she lacks legitimacy among Venezuelans and international investors.

Rodríguez has denounced Maduro’s capture while also signalling openness to dialogue with the United States. Authorities in Caracas have warned against unrest, briefly detained journalists, and ordered arrests of those accused of cooperating with the U.S. operation.

Maduro, now facing narcotics charges in the United States, has pleaded not guilty and insists he remains Venezuela’s legitimate president. His detention has intensified international debate, with some governments condemning U.S. intervention and others urging dialogue and respect for international law.

Venezuela, home to the world’s largest proven oil reserves, remains economically fragile after years of mismanagement, sanctions and declining production, adding to uncertainty over its political future.