Venezuelan Nobel Peace Prize Winner Presents Her Medal to Trump

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado made headlines today by presenting her Nobel Peace Prize medal to President Donald Trump during a private meeting at the White House. This historic encounter, the first in-person meeting between the two, was marked by Machado’s declaration: I think today is a historic day for us Venezuelans. The timing follows weeks after U.S. forces charged Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a drug-trafficking case.

A Gesture of Recognition

In a social media post, Trump expressed his gratitude for Machado’s gesture, calling it a wonderful display of mutual respect. While he has not endorsed Machado as Venezuela’s new leader—following claims of her victory in the controversial 2024 elections—he described their meeting as a great honor, praising her as a wonderful woman who has been through so much.

After their meeting, Machado addressed her supporters gathered outside the White House, assuring them in Spanish, We can count on President Trump. She further articulated to journalists: I presented the president of the United States the medal of the Nobel Peace Prize as a recognition for his unique commitment to our freedom.

Clarification from the Nobel Committee

Despite Machado’s intent to share her Nobel Peace Prize medal with Trump, the Nobel Committee clarified that the honor is not transferable. Once a Nobel Prize is announced, it cannot be revoked, shared, or transferred to others, the committee stated. A separate message from the Nobel Peace Center emphasized that while medals might change hands, the title of Nobel Peace Prize laureate remains an unalterable distinction.

A Historical Connection

During her remarks, Machado drew parallels from history, referencing how the Marquis de Lafayette gifted a medal of George Washington to Simón Bolívar, a foundational figure in Venezuela. This act was a sign of the brotherhood between our countries in their fight against tyranny, she remarked. By returning this symbol, she likens it to Venezuela recognizing the U.S. for its unwavering support in their quest for freedom.

Engaging with U.S. Politics

Machado’s visit also included meetings with U.S. senators where her supporters chanted, María, presidente, while waving Venezuelan flags. It is speculated that she aimed to convince Trump that supporting Delcy Rodríguez’s interim government was a misstep, advocating instead for her opposition coalition to lead the transitional phase.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt acknowledged Machado’s impactful voice on behalf of many Venezuelans, stating that Trump was looking forward to this meeting to discuss current realities in Venezuela.

Although Trump recognizes Machado’s position as a freedom fighter, he has refrained from appointing her as a leader post-Maduro, citing concerns about her domestic support.

The Evolving Situation in Venezuela

In light of recent developments, the Trump administration has initiated efforts to reshape Venezuela’s oil sector, previously affected by U.S. sanctions. An American official confirmed the successful completion of a $500 million sale of Venezuelan oil, and U.S. forces reported the boarding of a sixth tanker suspected of transporting sanctioned oil.

Additionally, a Venezuelan envoy, reportedly a close ally of Rodríguez, is expected to visit Washington to discuss the reopening of the Venezuelan embassy. Rodríguez, who recently gave the annual Message to the Nation speech, expressed readiness for diplomatic meetings in the U.S. If I ever have to go to Washington as acting president, I will do so standing tall, she stated.

In a recent phone call with Trump, Rodríguez characterized their conversation as productive and courteous, marked by mutual respect.

In conclusion, the presentation of Machado’s Nobel Peace Prize medal to Trump not only symbolizes a commendable alliance but also adds a new chapter to Venezuela’s ongoing struggle for freedom. As the political landscape evolves, the partnership between Venezuelan leaders and the U.S. continues to shape hopes for a democratic future in Venezuela.