Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has said she has not spoken to former US president Donald Trump since October, pushing back against speculation about ongoing contact as political pressure intensifies on President Nicolás Maduro.
Machado made the comments as Venezuela remains in political uncertainty following disputed elections and continued international debate over the country’s leadership. She said her focus remains on mobilising domestic and international support for democratic change, rather than maintaining personal links with US political figures.
The remarks come amid renewed attention on Washington’s stance toward Venezuela, including legal and diplomatic actions targeting Maduro and his allies. Analysts say opposition figures are keen to demonstrate independence from US politicians while still seeking international backing.
Machado, who was barred from running for president but remains a central figure in the opposition movement, has previously welcomed foreign pressure on Maduro’s government. However, she has also emphasised that Venezuela’s future must be decided by Venezuelans.
The Maduro government continues to reject opposition claims and international criticism, accusing rivals of working with foreign powers to undermine national sovereignty. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts involving regional and global actors are ongoing, with no immediate resolution in sight.
