Washington, Jan 17 (NationPress) Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado stated that her nation has reached the “threshold of freedom,” announcing that a shift towards democracy is underway following recent political changes and U.S. actions against the Maduro regime.

“On January 3rd, 2026, a significant milestone was reached,” Machado proclaimed during a press briefing in Washington. “We are undoubtedly embarking on the initial steps towards a genuine transition to democracy,” she emphasized.

During her address at the Heritage Foundation, Machado described her experience in the U.S. as extraordinary, given the dangers she has faced back in Venezuela. “It feels miraculous to be in a free country,” she remarked, noting that Venezuelans have suffered years of oppression without resources, finances, or a free press.

She credited the resolve of ordinary citizens for propelling the movement forward. “People determined to be free, even in the face of severe tyranny, can prevail,” she stated. “The power of conviction and love is the strongest force of all.”

Machado mentioned that Venezuelans who have never known democracy have courageously risked their lives to demand dignity and justice. “It’s all about human dignity. It’s all about justice. It’s all about love,” she said, highlighting the plight of children growing up without parents, education, or food.

She expressed her gratitude to President Donald Trump and the American populace, stating that U.S. actions demanded “a lot of courage.” “He did this not only on behalf of the American people but because he genuinely cares for the people of Venezuela,” she noted.

Machado stated that Trump personally delivered this message to her during a meeting earlier this week. “He mentioned this to me yesterday, and I believe that was the most crucial message I can bring back to my country,” she added.

She highlighted the humanitarian crisis, including political prisoners, exiles, and widespread malnutrition. “We have the generation experiencing the highest levels of malnutrition in a century,” she remarked.

In addressing concerns about instability, Machado asserted that Venezuela’s transition would be distinct from others in different regions. “We are discussing a society that is perhaps the most unified in the region,” she said. “Ninety percent of the population shares the same desire.”

She dismissed comparisons with divided societies, pointing out that Venezuela lacks religious, racial, or regional divisions that fuel conflict. “There was a single longing that united Venezuelans,” she said. “We want our children back home.”

Machado emphasized that Venezuelans seek dignity through work, not dependency. “Women are not looking for handouts,” she said. “They aspire to live through their hard work.”

She envisioned the future Venezuela as “profoundly pro-America,” differentiating the regime from the people. “That’s not the Venezuelan people, and that’s not the armed forces either,” she stated.

Machado expressed confidence in a systematic transition. “The outcome of a stable transition will be a proud Venezuela that will become the best ally the United States has ever had in the Americas,” she asserted.

In her final remarks, she assured Venezuelans of eventual freedom. “Venezuela will be free,” she declared, “and that will be achieved with the support of the American people and President Donald Trump.”