Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado returned to the country nearly a year after departing to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Machado, 59, was last seen on social media footage in Barquisimeto, the capital of Lara state located approximately 220 miles west of Caracas. Details surrounding her entry into Venezuela have not been disclosed.

Upon returning, Machado faced overwhelming popular support as large crowds gathered along her route. The strong turnout caused significant delays, extending her travel time to Caracas to about eight hours. Supporters were seen presenting her with rosaries during the procession.

Machado has been absent from Venezuela for roughly 10 months and has reportedly spent the past year in hiding following a disputed election. She was barred from contesting the upcoming 2024 presidential election against the current government led by Nicolás Maduro. Her reappearance marks a significant moment for the opposition amid ongoing political tensions in the country.