CARACAS – Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodríguez issued a pointed warning to opposition figure María Corina Machado, suggesting that she would face legal consequences if she attempts to return to the country. Rodríguez’s remarks came during a military event in Caracas where she spoke about defending national peace and stability.
Rodríguez, speaking at a ceremony attended by the Venezuelan armed forces, did not mention Machado by name. However, her message was widely interpreted as directed at the opposition leader, who has been in the United States and has made public statements about her intention to return to Venezuela to participate in the political transition.
Addressing what she described as threats from abroad, Rodríguez said her government has “opened a space for political dialogue,” but she warned that those seeking to “perpetuate harm and aggression against the Venezuelan people should stay in Washington.” She insisted that peace and order would be maintained in Venezuela, and that “there will be law and there will be justice” for anyone attempting to undermine internal stability.
Political analysts view the comments as a response to growing expectations surrounding Machado’s potential return and her ongoing engagement with U.S. officials. Earlier this week, Machado held meetings in Washington, including discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, underscoring her international profile and support.
Rodríguez assumed the interim presidency following the January 3 capture of former Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces, a development that significantly reshaped the country’s political landscape. Since then, Rodríguez has emphasized national sovereignty while navigating intense diplomatic pressure from the United States and other international actors.
Meanwhile, Machado has been vocal about her desire to return to Venezuela “as soon as possible” to help lead political change, though it remains unclear whether she faces any legal barriers or formal charges that would impede her return.
Rodríguez’s warning highlights ongoing political tensions in Venezuela, where the interplay between domestic opposition figures and foreign relations continues to shape the country’s uncertain path forward.
