Venezuelan Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado Discusses Plans to Return

Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said she plans to return to Venezuela, according to an interview broadcast May 11, 2026. NPR's Mary Louise Kelly spoke with Machado on All Things Considered. The 11-minute-20-second segment focused on her stated plans to go back to the country she left after facing legal restrictions on her political activities.

She was barred from holding office and faced arrest warrants that prompted her to go into hiding or exile in prior years. The interview comes as Venezuela continues to face political tensions following disputed elections in 2024.

In the conversation, Machado addressed the risks involved in her potential return and what she hopes to achieve by going back at this time. The opposition leader's return could test the Maduro government's response to high-profile critics re-entering the country.

Venezuelan authorities have not issued a public statement on her announced plans as of the broadcast date. Machado first rose to prominence as a legislator and activist pushing for democratic reforms. She has maintained international visibility even while restricted from participating directly in domestic elections.