Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has stated that the arrest of President Nicolas Maduro by the United States occurred after his refusal to negotiate his departure from office.
Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, released a statement on X, claiming that a “moment of freedom” has arrived in Venezuela following Maduro’s apprehension. She asserted that Edmundo González Urrutia, the opposition candidate in the July 2024 presidential elections, “should immediately assume his constitutional position.”
The circumstances surrounding Maduro’s arrest remain unclear, but Machado’s statement suggests a culmination of escalating tensions between the opposition and the Maduro regime.
Trump Casts Doubt on Machado’s Leadership Potential
However, former U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed skepticism regarding Machado’s ability to lead Venezuela. Trump stated on Saturday that Washington is cooperating with Maduro’s vice president, seemingly dismissing Machado’s claim to leadership.
“I think it would be very difficult for her to be the leader. She doesn’t have the support or respect within the country,” Trump said at a press conference. “She’s a very nice woman, but she’s not respected.”
Trump announced Maduro’s arrest early Saturday morning, stating that it was the result of a U.S. operation targeting Maduro’s residence in Venezuela. He added that Maduro is being transported to New York to face trial in an American court.
The situation in Venezuela remains fluid, and DZWatch will continue to provide updates as they become available.
