Venezuelan Opposition Leader Says She Should Lead After Maduro’s Removal. Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado says she should “absolutely” be in charge of the country following last week’s removal of President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces. In an interview with CBS, Machado said her movement is ready to serve the people and thanked former U.S. President Donald Trump for his “leadership and courage” in the operation. Despite her praise, Trump has publicly questioned her ability to lead, saying she lacks support and respect in Venezuela - According to BBC. Machado, however, criticized the interim president, Delcy Rodríguez — Maduro’s former vice-president — saying she is widely distrusted due to her role in repression under the previous regime. Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, described the U.S. military action as a step toward restoring democracy, prosperity, and the rule of law in Venezuela. She insists her coalition is prepared to lead and plans to return to the country to push for fair elections.