The Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado issued a statement on Thursday directed at the people of Venezuela, in which she asserted that "the hour of freedom has arrived" and called on citizens to remain organized and active in the democratic transition process.
In the text, dated January 3, 2026, Machado stated that Nicolás Maduro is facing international justice "for the atrocious crimes committed against Venezuelans and citizens of many other nations," and emphasized that, in light of his refusal to accept a negotiated solution, the United States government has fulfilled its promise to uphold the law.
The opposition member declared that "the time has come for Popular Sovereignty and National Sovereignty to prevail in our country," and called for the release of political prisoners, the restoration of order, and the construction of "an exceptional country."
Machado stated that "we have fought for years, we have given everything, and it has been worth it," and asserted that this is the moment for the citizens "who risked everything for democracy on July 28." In this context, he recognized Edmundo González Urrutia as the legitimate president of Venezuela, who —according to the statement— must assume his constitutional mandate and be acknowledged as Commander in Chief of the National Armed Forces.
He also urged Venezuelans both inside and outside the country to remain mobilized and vigilant: “To Venezuelans who are within our country, be ready to implement what we will soon communicate to you through our official channels.”
"To the Venezuelans abroad, we need you mobilized, engaging governments and citizens around the world and committing them now to the great operation of building the new Venezuela," he added.
Machado ended his message with a call for national unity: “In these decisive hours, receive all my strength, my confidence, and my affection. We remain vigilant and in touch. Venezuela will be free. We walk hand in hand with God, until the end.”
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