Venezuelan opposition leader Machado appears in Oslo to receive Nobel Peace Prize

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado made her first public appearance in months after arriving in Oslo to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, despite a travel ban and threats of arrest in her home country, the BBC reported.

Machado appeared on a hotel balcony after arriving at night, greeting supporters who had gathered outside. It was her first public appearance since January. Her daughter accepted the prize earlier in the day, while Machado traveled covertly to Norway under conditions she described as highly dangerous.

The Nobel Committee recognized Machado for her efforts to promote a democratic transition in Venezuela, where she has long been a prominent critic of President Nicolás Maduro. In turn, Venezuelan authorities have accused her of conspiracy and terrorism and recently warned that she would be considered a fugitive if she left the country to attend the ceremony.

During her remarks in Norway, Machado reiterated her criticisms of Maduro’s government and called for increased international pressure. She said she intends to return to Venezuela and remains committed to supporting a peaceful political transition. Venezuelan officials deny the allegations against them and reject claims of criminal activity.

Meanwhile, the U.S. has been building up its military presence in the Caribbean, accusing Maduro of narcoterrorism and warning that further action could follow.