Big Take Weekend Listen: Nobel Laureate Believes US Pressure on Maduro Is the Only Way
11 snips
Nov 2, 2025 
María Corina Machado, a Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, discusses her recent experiences and views on the Maduro regime. She explains her reasons for supporting U.S. military pressure and the moral responsibility to intervene against criminal networks. Machado outlines plans for a peaceful transition to democracy, emphasizing her vision for Venezuela's economy and the need for international cooperation. She discusses the current readiness of the opposition and why this moment feels uniquely hopeful for change.
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Life In Hiding Under Threat
- María Corina Machado described going into hiding after being accused of terrorism by Nicolás Maduro's regime.
- She said she has lived in absolute isolation for almost 15 months fearing disappearance if discovered.
Nobel Prize Raises Repression Costs
- Machado said the Nobel Peace Prize raised international attention and increased protection for opposition figures.
- She argued it raises the cost of repression and ends impunity for the regime.
Venezuela As A Criminal Hub
- Machado characterized Venezuela as a safe haven for international criminal networks and foreign agents.
- She listed drug cartels, guerrillas, arms smuggling, and presence of Russian and Iranian actors as causes of regional threat.