Venezuelan Opposition Leader Holds White House Meeting with Trump
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado met with President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday. The lunch meeting focused on Venezuela's political future. This marked their first face-to-face encounter.
Machado described the meeting as "great" when speaking to reporters. She left the White House around 2:40 pm local time.
White House Comments on the Meeting
White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt addressed the press about the discussion. She stated that Trump anticipated a "good and positive discussion" with Machado.
Leavitt called Machado a remarkable and brave voice for many Venezuelan people. She confirmed that Trump supports holding new elections in Venezuela when the timing is appropriate. However, she did not provide specific details about when that might occur.
The press secretary explained that Machado requested the meeting without setting expectations for outcomes. Leavitt noted that Trump did not need to hear anything specific from Machado. She said the president simply wanted a frank and positive conversation about Venezuela's situation.
Trump's Previous Doubts About Machado's Leadership
President Trump had previously expressed skepticism about Machado's ability to lead Venezuela. He stated it would be challenging for her because she lacks sufficient support and respect within the country.
This skepticism exists despite widespread belief that her party actually won the 2024 elections. Those election results were rejected by former President Nicolás Maduro.
Machado had previously offered to share her Nobel Peace Prize with Trump. She won the prestigious award last year. Trump has long expressed desire for a Nobel Peace Prize.
Broader Context of US-Venezuela Relations
Machado's Washington visit follows recent US actions against Venezuela. American forces recently seized another sanctioned oil tanker in the Caribbean Sea. The Trump administration claims this vessel had connections to Venezuela.
This seizure represents part of broader US efforts to control Venezuela's oil resources. These efforts intensified after American forces captured Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
US troops apprehended the couple at a heavily guarded compound in Caracas. They transported Maduro to New York where he now faces trial on drug trafficking charges.
Cooperation Between US and Venezuelan Interim Authorities
White House spokeswoman Leavitt reported that Venezuela's interim authorities have been cooperating fully with the Trump administration. The government led by interim authorities announced plans to release additional prisoners.
These prisoners were held under Maduro's regime. The release includes five Americans scheduled for freedom this week.
Interim authorities have reportedly adopted a less confrontational approach toward Trump recently. This represents a shift from their immediate stance following Maduro's ouster.
This change suggests they believe Trump's "America First" policies toward the Western Hemisphere could benefit Venezuela, at least temporarily.
Trump's Recent Communication with Venezuelan Leadership
President Trump revealed on Wednesday that he had a "great conversation" with interim authorities. This was their first discussion since Maduro's removal from power.
Trump described it as a long call covering many topics. He expressed optimism about improving relations with Venezuela during an Oval Office bill signing ceremony.
Following her White House meeting, Machado plans to meet with members of the US Senate. Her Washington visit continues amid ongoing political developments between the United States and Venezuela.
