Hour of Freedom Has Arrived, Says Machado After Maduro’s Capture

In a post on

“It is time for popular sovereignty and national sovereignty to prevail in our country. We will bring order, release political prisoners, build an exceptional country and bring our children back to their homes.”

Machado said that the years-long struggle for democracy in Venezuela has finally reached a turning point. “We fought for years, we gave everything, and it was worth it. What is meant to be, is happening. This is the moment for the people,” he said.

He said Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, whom the opposition sees as the legitimate president, should immediately assume his constitutional post and be recognized as commander-in-chief of the national armed forces.

Machado called on citizens in Venezuela to prepare for the coming instructions and called on Venezuelans abroad to mobilize international support, emphasizing that unity and vigilance are crucial in these decisive hours.

“Venezuelans at home, be prepared to implement what we will soon communicate through our official channels. We need Venezuelans abroad to mobilize governments and citizens around the world to help build a new Venezuela,” he said. “Venezuela will be free.”

This statement came after President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured in Caracas and taken out of the country in a joint operation involving intelligence agencies and US law enforcement, leading to increased tension and uncertainty.

According to the unsealed indictment shared by US Attorney Pamela Bondi against X, Maduro and Flores face numerous charges related to alleged drug trafficking and narco-terrorism conspiracies.

Maduro’s capture comes at a time when tensions between the United States and Venezuela are increasing.