María Corina Machado has remained outside Venezuela since exiting covertly in December 2025 to accept the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, after years under a travel ban and in hiding. Multiple public commitments to return—initially described as “as soon as possible” and later targeted for late 2026—have not materialized. Attempts in June and July 2026, including efforts tied to earthquake relief, were blocked by Venezuelan authorities closing airspace, airline refusals, and statements from U.S. officials describing the timing as counterproductive amid the transition under acting President Delcy Rodríguez following Nicolás Maduro’s ouster. Traders are therefore focused on the interplay between her stated intent, ongoing security and diplomatic constraints, and any near-term shifts in Venezuelan or U.S. policy that could open a viable entry window before year-end deadlines.