In a recent private meeting with Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, President Donald Trump advised her against returning to Venezuela because of ongoing security concerns in the country. According to reports from The New York Times, Trump made this recommendation during a cordial breakfast meeting in the Oval Office, which also involved Senator Marco Rubio. The discussion lasted over two hours and highlighted the precarious situation in Venezuela, particularly for prominent opposition figures.

The advice given to Machado by Trump reflects similar warnings from various U.S. officials regarding the instability in Venezuela. The current political environment poses significant risks for individuals like Machado who have been vocal against the Maduro government. Sources report that Machado’s decision to delay her return aligns with these safety concerns, suggesting a broader strategy for opposition leaders navigating their roles in a volatile political landscape.

Despite inquiries made by the media, neither Machado nor the White House provided comments on this information. The details were shared by anonymous sources, which indicates sensitivities surrounding discussions of security among opposition leaders and the U.S. government's positioning on Venezuela's political crisis. This incident underscores the ongoing interest of the U.S. in Venezuela and the challenges faced by those vying for political change.