President Donald Trump firmly denied on Wednesday any involvement in advising Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado against returning to her homeland. These remarks were made aboard Air Force One as he returned from the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey.
When a reporter inquired if he had suggested Machado avoid traveling back to Venezuela, Trump responded emphatically: "No... absolutely not... Why would I say that? She's incredible. A wonderful person. I never told her not to go."
Trump also questioned whether Machado had managed to return to Venezuela, noting that he had heard she hadn't, which indicates his awareness of her unsuccessful attempts to go back.
Contradictory Reports
Trump's comments stand in contrast to earlier reports from various media outlets. A New York Times investigation suggested that the Trump administration had personally advised Machado to delay her return, citing concerns over political stability and security conditions.
A State Department spokesperson labeled her attempted return as "counterproductive" to humanitarian aid efforts following the catastrophic double earthquake on June 24, 2026. The earthquakes, measuring magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, devastated Venezuela, resulting in over 3,811 confirmed deaths, more than 16,740 injuries, and countless missing individuals.
Travel Obstructions
The Dutch authorities revoked Machado's landing permit in Curaçao when she attempted to travel from Panama, following Washington's clear stance against supporting her journey. Additionally, Copa Airlines refused to transport her, fearing repercussions from the regime, and the government of Delcy Rodríguez closed Venezuelan airspace.
Trump's Praise for Machado
In his denial, Trump took the opportunity to praise Machado, recalling how she had presented him with her physical Nobel Peace Prize medal on January 15, 2026, as a tribute to his "unique commitment" to Venezuela's freedom.
"I didn't tell anyone not to return. I think she's a good person. She gave me the Nobel," Trump stated, referencing Machado's words: "She said the only one who should win it was Trump."
Complex Relationship Dynamics
The backdrop of these statements is a relationship that has experienced growing tension throughout 2026. In March, Trump officially recognized Delcy Rodríguez as Venezuela's interim president, a decision that caused friction with Machado. In May, CNN reported that the opposition leader was excluded from Qatar-mediated talks regarding the post-Maduro transition.
Machado, a 2025 Nobel Peace Prize laureate and leader of the Vente Venezuela party, had announced her intention to return to Venezuela after the earthquake to stand with her people, but faced obstacles at every turn.
On Tuesday, from Panama—where she attended a mass for the earthquake victims—Machado wrote on X: "I will return. Not as an event, but as a promise fulfilled step by step."
Frequently Asked Questions about María Corina Machado's Situation
Did Donald Trump advise María Corina Machado not to return to Venezuela?
Trump explicitly denied advising Machado against returning to Venezuela, stating she is a wonderful person and that he never discouraged her.
What were the reasons for Machado's travel obstacles?
The obstacles were reportedly due to safety concerns, political instability, and decisions made by both Dutch authorities and airlines, influenced by U.S. and Venezuelan government positions.
How did the earthquakes in Venezuela affect Machado's plans?
The devastating earthquakes prompted Machado to announce her return to support her people, but her attempts were hindered due to safety and political concerns.