Machado appeared at a church in Lara state, where supporters greeted her with applause, hugs and cheers. One woman called it a “miracle,” while others chanted “Freedom!” and raised their cellphones to record the moment.

Edmundo González, a leading opposition figure, confirmed Machado’s return on social media, writing, “Today is a very important day for Venezuelans. Our sovereign voice returns with her to lead and guide this process!” González has been a key figure in the opposition since Machado was barred from running in the 2024 election.

U.S. President Donald Trump was asked about Machado’s return and responded, “I don’t know anything about it, but I think she’s a very nice woman. She gave me her Nobel Prize. So how can I say anything else? And I hope she’s safe.” Trump’s administration had previously backed acting President Delcy Rodríguez, a longtime ally of former President Nicolás Maduro, who has remained in power beyond the 90-day interim period.

In 2023, Machado won an independent opposition primary with over 90% of the vote but was barred from running in the 2024 election by the Maduro government. González took her place and, according to the opposition, provided evidence suggesting he won the election. However, the government-controlled electoral council declared Maduro the winner. The election was followed by repression, including the detention of over 2,000 people, including poll workers.

In January 2026, the U.S. military captured Maduro in Caracas and brought him to New York to face drug-related charges. The Trump administration then endorsed Rodríguez as interim president, who has yet to call for new elections despite public demand and a promise to do so at the United Nations General Assembly in September.

Rubio stated that the conditions for Machado’s return were the result of U.S.-supported reconciliation talks that have led to the release of political prisoners and the return of opposition figures from exile.

Machado’s team said earlier this month she had attempted to return to Venezuela seven times in a few weeks but was denied each time. Reports suggested the U.S. was involved in delaying her return, though it has denied this.