US will not prevent María Corina Machado's return to Venezuela and supports political transition

The United States has confirmed it will not block the return of María Corina Machado to Venezuela, while supporting ongoing political reconciliation efforts. This statement was made during a congressional hearing by U.S. Department of State officials, including Luis Méndez, the deputy under secretary for Latin America. According to Méndez, the administration does not intend to prevent Machado’s return, though conditions must still be met to ensure her safety upon arrival. The announcement came after Venezuelan authorities announced new talks with opposition groups focused on institutional reforms, electoral changes, and political participation guarantees. These discussions involve a faction of the opposition led by Dinorah Figuera, a member of parliament who supports the legitimacy of the 2015 National Assembly elections and differs from Machado on strategy toward the Chávez regime. The U.S. government views this engagement as a “significant step” toward political reconciliation. A spokesperson for the Department of State, Thomas Pigott, emphasized that the joint agenda proposed by the ruling party and parts of the opposition could mark a turning point in Venezuela’s political landscape. Machado, the leading figure of the opposition since the 2024 presidential elections, during which she was barred from running due to political sanctions, has consistently expressed her desire to return to the country. However, U.S. officials have indicated that more work is needed to guarantee her safe return. Méndez stated, “There is still work to be done so that when she returns, she won’t be arrested.” He added that Washington has conveyed these concerns to Venezuelan authorities. This development follows the January capture of President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces and the subsequent assumption of power by Delcy Rodríguez, a former key figure within the Chavista movement. Since then, Washington has been actively promoting a transition process in Caracas, engaging both the interim government and opposition factions. The U.S. aims to maintain influence over how this political shift unfolds. Meanwhile, Venezuela continues to grapple with severe political instability and a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by recent natural disasters. On June 24, two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 struck different regions of the country, causing widespread damage. The official death toll has risen to 4,930, with over 21,000 displaced individuals relocated to temporary shelters. The coastal state of La Guaira, one of the hardest-hit areas, hosts thousands of people in makeshift camps. Evacuations were also carried out in Caracas, Miranda, and Aragua. Amid these challenges, the political future of Venezuela remains shaped by negotiations between the Chavista leadership and various opposition groups. The U.S. continues its efforts to steer the transition process, balancing support for political dialogue with pressure on the current regime. The situation reflects a complex interplay of internal politics and external pressures, with the potential for further shifts in the coming weeks.