Venezuelan Opposition Leader Machado Assures Supporters of Trump’s Backing After White House Meeting

Washington — Venezuelan opposition figure María Corina Machado emerged from a lengthy meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday, expressing strong confidence that the American leader would stand firmly behind her country’s democratic aspirations.

Speaking to supporters and reporters outside the White House, Ms. Machado described the approximately two-and-a-half-hour discussion as positive and productive. She told her followers they could “count on” President Trump, underscoring his commitment to Venezuela’s future amid the ongoing political upheaval following the U.S. military operation that captured former President Nicolás Maduro earlier this month.

The encounter marked the first in-person meeting between the two since Ms. Machado received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2025 for her longstanding efforts to promote democracy in Venezuela. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described Ms. Machado as “a remarkable and brave voice” for the Venezuelan people. However, Ms. Leavitt emphasized that the meeting did not alter President Trump’s earlier assessment of her leadership prospects, framing the discussion as a candid exchange on Venezuela’s current situation.

President Trump has previously voiced skepticism about Ms. Machado’s domestic support base, while stressing the need for time to stabilize the country before any elections can occur. Ms. Leavitt reiterated that the administration backs holding new elections “when the time is right,” without specifying a timeline.

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Ms. Machado arrived at the White House seeking dialogue rather than immediate concessions, according to administration officials. As she departed, she declined to address questions about whether she had presented her Nobel medal to President Trump as a gesture of appreciation—responding only with a brief “gracias” while embracing waiting supporters.

Following the White House session, Ms. Machado headed to Capitol Hill for a scheduled meeting with senators. She is expected to address reporters later in the day.

The meeting occurs against the backdrop of significant U.S. involvement in Venezuela’s affairs, including recent seizures of tankers linked to Venezuelan oil operations. These actions align with the administration’s efforts to regulate the country’s energy exports in the wake of Maduro’s removal.

Ms. Machado’s visit highlights the complex dynamics shaping Venezuela’s transition, as the United States balances support for democratic processes with practical considerations for governance and stability in the oil-rich nation.