Venezuela: Opposition leader Machado returns from exile, received by thousands of supporters in Caracas
Venezuela's opposition leader Maria Corina Machado returned to Caracas on Sunday after nearly a year in exile, greeted by thousands of supporters waving flags and chanting slogans.
Thousands of supporters lined highways and streets in Caracas, waving Venezuelan flags and chanting freedom as Machado's convoy entered the capital. Wearing her trademark white T-shirt and blue jeans, she leaned out of a sunroof, declaring this country is giving lessons to everyone. Earlier in Guacara, Machado was seen singing the national anthem in a packed plaza of supporters.
Exile circumstances
Facing arrest under Maduro, she sought refuge in the Argentine embassy and was smuggled out with US assistance. She was initially unable to return due to fears of detention by authorities.
Instead of backing Machado, Washington decided to support interim President Delcy Rodriguez.
Political tensions
After the US-led ouster and arrest of Maduro, Machado gave her Nobel medal to US President Trump. However, her extended absence was partly due to the Trump administration's concerns that her presence might inflame tensions during the transition period, as well as interference from Rodriguez.
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