Maria Corina Machado Says She Has Not Spoken to Donald Trump Since October Amid Venezuela Crisis

Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado said on Monday that she has not spoken with U.S. President Donald Trump since October, addressing speculation about her relationship with Washington at a time of dramatic political change in Venezuela.

Speaking on Fox News’ “Hannity” program, Machado clarified that her last conversation with Trump took place on October 10, the same day she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. She emphasized that there has been no communication since then, despite growing international attention on Venezuela’s leadership crisis. The Norwegian Nobel Committee honored Machado for her long-standing fight against what it described as a dictatorship in Venezuela, a recognition that further elevated her global profile.

Machado, widely viewed as the most credible political opponent to now-deposed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, left Venezuela last month to travel to Norway to formally accept the Nobel Peace Prize. Since then, she has remained outside the country. During the interview, she stated that she plans to return to Venezuela as soon as possible, signaling her intention to remain actively involved in the nation’s political future.

The Fox News appearance marked Machado’s first interview since the United States launched military strikes on Venezuela over the weekend, an operation that resulted in the capture of Maduro. Machado welcomed the U.S. intervention, calling it “a huge step for humanity, for freedom and human dignity,” and framing it as a turning point for Venezuelans who have long opposed the former government.

Following the U.S. action, Venezuela’s vice president and oil minister, Delcy Rodríguez, was sworn in as interim president on Monday. However, uncertainty remains about the country’s long-term leadership and political direction, with international observers closely watching developments.

Despite Machado’s prominence, President Trump dismissed the idea of working with her, stating over the weekend that she lacks sufficient support and respect within Venezuela. His remarks have fueled debate about the role Machado may play as the country navigates a volatile transition period.

The situation continues to evolve rapidly, raising questions about governance, international involvement, and the future of democracy in Venezuela.