Key facts
- Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado is seeking US help to return to her country.
- Machado's request comes shortly after devastating earthquakes struck Venezuela, causing over 900 deaths.
Senior US officials are frustrated by Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado's push for US assistance to return to Venezuela immediately following devastating earthquakes, a White House official stated. Machado, who left Venezuela in December, is seeking help to facilitate her return amid a climbing death toll from the natural disaster.
The situation highlights the complex political dynamics within Venezuela and the US's role in supporting opposition figures, complicated by a major natural disaster and ongoing humanitarian concerns.
Senior US officials are reportedly frustrated by Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado's recent push for US assistance to return to her home country, particularly given the timing following devastating earthquakes. A White House official told Reuters that while the US supports Machado's return, the timing is questionable given the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe.
Machado, who left Venezuela in December, has reached out to various US administration officials and members of Congress seeking help to facilitate her return. This comes after twin earthquakes struck Venezuela this week, resulting in over 900 fatalities and a climbing death toll.
Machado has been advocating for free and fair elections and had previously stated her expectation to return to Venezuela by the end of the year. Since departing Venezuela, she has primarily resided in the United States. The US has also been actively involved in recovery efforts, mobilizing search and rescue teams and coordinating the delivery of medical supplies, alongside unlocking $150 million in humanitarian aid.
Previously, US President Donald Trump had backed Delcy Rodriguez, Maduro's former deputy, over Machado for leadership in the short term, citing Machado's lack of immediate support.