Shares fell significantly in Venezuela after opposition leader María Corina Machado was safely escorted out of the country by a group of U.S. veterans, ending a year-long ordeal in hiding. Machado, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, was able to attend the ceremony in Oslo, Norway, on December 11, 2025, thanks to the efforts of the veterans.
According to sources, the U.S. veterans, who wished to remain anonymous, had been working with Machado's team to secure her safe passage out of Venezuela for several months. The group, comprised of former military personnel, used their skills and expertise to navigate the treacherous terrain and avoid detection by Venezuelan authorities.
"She's awesome, and we're just glad we could help," said one of the veterans, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "We knew it was a high-risk operation, but we were willing to take that risk to get her out safely."
Machado's escape was a significant achievement, given the hostile environment she faced in Venezuela. After her opposition movement defeated President Nicolás Maduro in last year's election, Maduro refused to leave office and ordered a massive crackdown on the opposition. Machado, who had been a vocal critic of Maduro's regime, was forced to go into hiding to avoid arrest and persecution.
The U.S. veterans' efforts to secure Machado's safe passage were reportedly aided by international organizations and human rights groups, who provided critical support and resources to facilitate her escape. The operation was carried out with precision and skill, with Machado being escorted out of Venezuela and transported to a safe location in Brazil before being flown to Oslo for the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony.
Machado's escape is seen as a significant victory for the opposition movement in Venezuela, which has been fighting for democratic freedoms and human rights in the country. The Nobel Peace Prize, which Machado was awarded for her efforts to promote democracy and human rights in Venezuela, is a testament to her bravery and dedication to the cause.
As for the U.S. veterans who helped facilitate Machado's escape, their actions have sparked a mix of reactions. While some have praised their bravery and selflessness, others have raised concerns about the risks and implications of their actions. The U.S. government has not commented on the operation, but sources indicate that the veterans' actions were carried out in a private capacity, without official sanction or support.
In the aftermath of Machado's escape, the situation in Venezuela remains volatile, with tensions between the opposition and Maduro's regime continuing to escalate. The international community is closely watching the situation, with many calling for greater action to be taken to address the humanitarian crisis and promote democratic freedoms in the country.
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