Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient, Maria Corina Machado, has sustained a spinal fracture during her daring escape from Venezuela. As a result, her stay in Norway has been extended while she undergoes medical evaluations and follows specialists' advice.
The Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten, citing sources close to Machado, revealed that the fracture occurred during her maritime journey to flee the country. This escape was undertaken amidst severe weather conditions and after passing numerous military checkpoints.
An Arduous Journey with Physical Consequences
According to a source familiar with the situation, the injury is directly linked to the physical strain encountered during her escape. "The journey involved five hours on a small boat in open sea, under extremely intense circumstances," noted the media outlet.
The crossing was made on a small fishing vessel through the Caribbean Sea, facing strong winds and high waves, after overcoming at least ten military checkpoints within Venezuela. To avoid detection, Machado even donned a wig as part of her disguise when leaving her hideout near Caracas.
Political Resolve Unshaken Despite Injury
Despite the medical diagnosis, those close to Machado assert that the fracture will not hinder her eventual return to Venezuela. "Machado is determined to return to the country. She remains fully committed to her political and democratic cause, though she will adhere to medical advice," a source told the Norwegian site.
During her time in Oslo, Machado has maintained part of her public agenda, including a visit to the Norwegian Parliament, showcasing her determination to remain active despite her physical limitations.
A Meticulously Planned Escape
Machado's escape was orchestrated over nearly two months by a network of collaborators, according to Aftenposten, culminating in her departure to Curaçao, from where she continued to Europe. The Wall Street Journal reported that U.S. defense authorities were informed of the journey to prevent any military incidents during the sea voyage.
The complexity of the escape prevented Machado from attending the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in Oslo. In her absence, her daughter Ana Corina Sosa accepted the award and delivered a speech on her behalf at Oslo's City Hall.
Medical Confidentiality Maintains Silence
Although Aftenposten reported that Machado was evaluated at the Ullevål University Hospital, the institution declined to confirm or deny the information. "The hospital cannot respond to such inquiries due to privacy and mandatory confidentiality," said spokesperson Anders Bayer.
It remains uncertain how long Machado will stay in Norway or where she will receive specialized treatment for her injury, as her dedication to Venezuela's democratic future remains unwavering.
Frequently Asked Questions about Maria Corina Machado's Situation
What caused Maria Corina Machado's spinal fracture?
The spinal fracture was caused by the physical strain endured during her escape from Venezuela, which involved a challenging five-hour boat journey under severe maritime conditions.
Will Maria Corina Machado return to Venezuela?
Yes, despite her injury, Machado is determined to return to Venezuela and continues to be committed to her political and democratic fight.
How was Maria Corina Machado's escape planned?
Her escape was meticulously planned over two months by a network of supporters, allowing her to depart Venezuela via a risky maritime route to Curaçao and onward to Europe.