Venezuela’s opposition has declared its readiness to take power immediately after the United States captured the country’s president, Nicolás Maduro. The announcement was made by Nobel Peace Prize laureate María Corina Machado, who said the country was entering a phase of political rupture.
In a statement published on X, Machado said: “Venezuelans, the time for freedom has come. Nicolás Maduro now stands before international justice for heinous crimes committed against Venezuelans and citizens of many other countries. Given his refusal to reach a decision through negotiations, the government of the United States has fulfilled its promise to uphold the rule of law.”
According to Machado, the events unfolding have opened a window of opportunity for the “establishment of popular and national sovereignty.” She pledged the restoration of order, the release of political prisoners, and the return of Venezuelans forced to leave the country. “We will restore order, free political prisoners, build an exceptional nation, and bring our children home,” she said.
Machado also said that the transitional period should be led by former presidential candidate Edmundo González Urrutia, whom the opposition regards as the country’s legitimate leader.
In a separate address, Machado said the opposition was ready to carry out the mandate it had received and urged supporters to remain organized until the democratic transition is completed. “Today we are ready to fulfill our mandate and take power. Let us remain vigilant, active, and organized until the democratic transition is achieved—a transition that requires the participation of ALL of us,” she said.
Addressing citizens inside the country, Machado urged them to be ready for further instructions to be delivered through official channels. She called on Venezuelans abroad to mobilize and to engage foreign governments and societies in the process of shaping a new власти. “In these decisive hours, take all my strength, my confidence, and my love. We remain vigilant and in touch. VENEZUELA WILL BE FREE!”