A Daring Extraction Under Extreme Risk
A former US special forces veteran has revealed details of a highly dangerous overnight rescue mission that secretly extracted Nobel Peace Prize winner María Corina Machado from Venezuela — and has strongly urged her never to return due to serious threats to her life.
The operation, which lasted nearly 16 hours, involved covert sea travel through rough, dark waters and constant surveillance risks from multiple intelligence agencies.
“Our Most Delicate Mission Ever”
Bryan Stern, founder of the Grey Bull Rescue Foundation, described the mission as the most complex and sensitive operation his team has ever carried out.
Despite completing over 800 rescue missions and saving more than 8,000 people worldwide, Stern said this extraction was unique due to Machado’s international profile.
“This was the first rescue subject we’ve ever had with a Wikipedia page,” Stern explained, highlighting the global attention and danger involved.
Hunted Across Borders
According to Stern, the mission faced extraordinary risks because Machado was allegedly being tracked by Venezuelan intelligence, along with elements linked to Cuban and Russian intelligence networks.
Her recent Nobel Peace Prize recognition further increased the danger, making the timing of the rescue especially critical.
The extraction began with Machado boarding a small boat from the Venezuelan coast, meeting Stern at sea before being transported to safety under the cover of darkness.
From Hiding to Oslo
After reaching shore in the early hours of Wednesday, Machado was flown out of the region and eventually arrived in Norway, where she reunited with her daughter after two years apart.
She appeared publicly for the first time in nearly a year, waving to supporters from a hotel balcony in Oslo following the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony, which her daughter had earlier accepted on her behalf.
Machado had gone into hiding after Venezuela’s disputed election and the government’s crackdown on opposition voices.
No Official US Involvement — But Coordination Confirmed
Stern stated that the rescue was funded by anonymous donors and was not officially backed by the US government.
However, to avoid accidental confrontation, his team notified US military officials operating in the Caribbean about their presence at sea — without disclosing full details until the final moments.
A Personal Plea Not to Return
Perhaps the most emotional moment came after the rescue was complete.
Stern revealed that during the journey, he personally begged Machado not to go back to Venezuela, warning that returning could expose her to arrest, torture, or worse.
Despite this, he acknowledged her determination as a leader committed to her people — even in the face of grave danger.
🌍 Why This Story Matters
This dramatic extraction highlights the growing risks faced by political figures and activists under authoritarian systems — and raises serious questions about safety, freedom, and international responsibility.