Maduro Turns Venezuela Into ‘Biggest Threat’ to U.S. National Security, Opposition Leader Warns

Maduro Turns Venezuela Into ‘Biggest Threat’ to U.S. National Security, Opposition Leader Warns

Henryetta Newsleader Network — International Desk

 Venezuela’s crisis is once again at the center of global attention as U.S. military operations in the Caribbean intensify pressure on Nicolás Maduro’s regime. Earlier this week, U.S. forces obliterated a drug-smuggling boat off the Venezuelan coast, killing 11 alleged members of the Tren de Aragua cartel. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the strike sent a clear message: Washington will not tolerate narco-terrorism threatening American security.

“President Trump has demonstrated, whether at the southwest border or against Iran’s Midnight Hammer, that the precise use of American military power reshapes dynamics in critical regions,” Hegseth said. “Maduro has some serious decisions to make.”

Venezuela’s Opposition Speaks Out

Maria Corina Machado, long considered the face of Venezuela’s democratic opposition, praised the Trump administration’s decisive action. Speaking from hiding during a Fox & Friends interview, she called Maduro the head of a “narco-terrorist corporation” that has endangered both Venezuelans and Americans.

“Maduro has turned Venezuela into the biggest threat to U.S. national security and regional stability,” Machado said. “This is about saving lives — not only Venezuelan lives, but American lives as well. The time of impunity is over.”

Despite intensifying repression, Machado insisted that Maduro’s hold on power is weakening. “He doesn’t trust his own armed forces, Venezuelan society is united, and hope is growing that freedom is finally within reach,” she said.

Personal Threats and Growing Repression

The risks for opposition figures remain dire. Diosdado Cabello, Venezuela’s powerful interior minister and Maduro loyalist, publicly threatened Machado, warning her not to think she could escape retribution if U.S. pressure continues.

“There are over 800 political prisoners in inhumane conditions,” Machado explained. “Many have been tortured. Maduro lashes out at the vulnerable because he cannot retaliate against the United States or the international community.”

Still, she vowed not to retreat. “We are organized. We are prepared for a peaceful transition. We know exactly what to do in the first 100 hours and 100 days to restore order, security, and institutions.”

Vision of a Post-Maduro Venezuela

Machado outlined her vision for a free Venezuela that would become a strong U.S. ally in security, trade, and energy. She predicted that millions of Venezuelan migrants would return once the dictatorship collapses.

“This is bigger than Venezuela,” she added. “Once Maduro falls, Cuba and Nicaragua are next. For the first time in history, the Americas could be free of communism and dictatorship. That will bring security and prosperity to the entire region — and to the United States.”

As the pressure mounts, questions remain: Will Maduro cling to power, or will his inner circle finally fracture? For now, Machado and the opposition say they are ready to step in when the moment comes.