Venezuela Power Struggle: Maria Corina Machado Vows to Lead as Trump Hesitates

She handed over her Nobel Peace Prize medal, but she hasn't secured a full endorsement. Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado remains defiant, vowing to lead her country 'when the right time comes' despite President Donald Trump's cautious approach to the current power vacuum.

Maria Corina Machado's Diplomatic Gamble in Washington

During a high-profile visit to Washington DC on January 15, 2026, Machado presented her Nobel medal to Trump as a gesture of mutual respect. Speaking to Fox News, she expressed confidence in becoming Venezuela's first female president. However, Trump has yet to officially back her, citing concerns over her domestic support levels, even as supporters in Congress chanted her name.

The geopolitical landscape shifted dramatically on January 3 when US forces removed Nicolas Maduro from Caracas. While Machado claims a mandate from the 2024 elections, the Trump administration is currently dealing with interim president Delcy Rodríguez.

Rodríguez and the CIA: A New Economic Dialogue

In a surprising move, CIA Director Ratcliffe held a two-hour meeting with Rodríguez in Caracas this Friday. According to US officials, the talks focused on ensuring Venezuela is no longer a haven for adversaries and exploring economic collaboration.

Rodríguez has already announced major oil industry reforms to attract foreign investment, marking a clear departure from Maduro's restrictive policies. Trump described Rodríguez as a 'terrific person' following a productive phone call, signaling that the White House might value pragmatic stability over ideological transitions.