Maria Corina Machado back in headlines as Venezuela’s opposition leader eyeing elections; longtime activist and former lawmaker pushing for regime change.
On January 29, 2026, Venezuela's National Assembly passed a bill reforming the oil sector to allow private and foreign companies operational control, reversing decades of state monopoly. The Trump administration eased sanctions on Venezuelan oil, signaling increased US involvement following the January 3 US military capture of former President Nicolás Maduro. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez supports the reforms amid ongoing political tensions and US pressure.
President Trump revealed plans to control Venezuela's oil production following Maduro's ouster. The US intends to sell up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil, with American companies involved in refining and distribution. The move aims to rebuild Venezuela's oil industry and benefit US interests.
Venezuela released at least 35 political prisoners on Sunday, including opposition figures Juan Pablo Guanipa and María Oropeza, following international pressure and a visit from UN human rights representatives. The government also announced plans to close the notorious El Helicoide prison and propose a broad amnesty law covering political violence since 1999.
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado estimates a 9-10 month timeline for a democratic transfer via manual voting, following her recent meetings with US officials and the capture of Maduro. US interest in Venezuela's political future is increasing amid questions about Rodriguez's support.
Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodriguez has approved an amnesty law, releasing hundreds of political prisoners and moving towards US-backed reforms. The law, still under debate, excludes those convicted of serious crimes and aims to foster peace amid ongoing political tensions.
On February 13, 2026, President Donald Trump announced plans to visit Venezuela, marking a historic thaw after the US military's January 3 operation that captured former President Nicolás Maduro. The Trump administration has eased sanctions on Venezuela's oil sector, fostering cooperation with interim leader Delcy Rodriguez and encouraging foreign investment to revive the oil industry.
Maria Corina Machado plans to return to Venezuela within weeks, aiming to lead the country's democratic transition. She calls for unity among Venezuelans and asserts the transition to democracy is unstoppable, amid ongoing political tensions and investigations against her.
Gabriel Kast was inaugurated as Chile's president, promising an emergency government focused on tackling crime, illegal migration, and economic revival. His election marks a shift to the right amid regional conservative gains, with regional leaders and US allies attending his swearing-in. Kast's policies include border security and law enforcement measures.
Venezuelan opposition leader Machado has visited Spain, meeting with opposition figures and avoiding talks with the government. She has received a warm welcome from conservative leaders, highlighting divisions within Venezuelan politics and contrasting her approach with that of the Spanish government, which emphasizes democratic sovereignty.
Venezuelan opposition leader María Machado has visited Spain, meeting with opposition figures and avoiding Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. She criticizes Maduro's government, advocates for democratic elections, and signals her intention to return to Venezuela amid ongoing political tensions. Machado's trip highlights divisions within Venezuelan opposition and international support for change.