Interview: María Corina Machado Discusses Her Nobel Peace Prize Win

On a recent episode of 'Face the Nation,' Venezuelan opposition figure María Corina Machado joined host Margaret Brennan from Norway, where she was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize.

BRENNAN: María Corina, thank you for joining us. Your journey out of Venezuela was fraught with danger, and you received aid from the U.S. Would you care to elaborate on that assistance?

MACHADO: I’d prefer not to disclose specifics to protect those who helped me. The regime is merciless with those who assist us.

BRENNAN: It was high-risk exiting Venezuela. The organization that helped you said numerous donors supported your travel because of its significance. What's your perspective?

MACHADO: The spotlight is on acknowledging Venezuelans who've bravely faced a regime dominated by crime and terrorism. It's an accolade for their arduous struggle.

BRENNAN: Are your children worried about your return to Venezuela? They’ve been away for their safety, I understand.

MACHADO: Naturally, there's concern. The regime is unpredictable and brutal, as shown by recent acts against innocent citizens. Yet, I am committed to being where I am of most service.

Support for Sanctions and Seizures

BRENNAN: Your stance on the increased sanctions and vessel seizures?

MACHADO: Full support. The Venezuelan administration operates as a crime syndicate. Curtailing their revenue streams is crucial.

BRENNAN: Doesn't this intensify the hardships for Venezuelans?

MACHADO: The hardships stem from the regime's actions. Resources aren't reaching the people but fund nefarious activities.

Rejection of Conventional Diplomacy

BRENNAN: There have been 17 dialogue attempts. Is there any diplomatic success to note?

MACHADO: No fruitful results. Promises made by the regime are routinely broken, while our side complies fully.

BRENNAN: Is the Venezuelan military weakening?

MACHADO: Evidence shows a fractured military, disobedience of orders, and alignment with opposition sentiment.

Path to Democracy

BRENNAN: What's your vision for a post-Maduro Venezuela?

MACHADO: Post-Maduro, we'll need global help to stabilize and rebuild. Importantly, Venezuelans are eager to return and rebuild.

BRENNAN: Final thoughts?

MACHADO: I envision a free Venezuela, and I invite the international community to stand with us through this critical juncture.