Maria Corina Machado presents her Nobel Peace Medal to President Trump at the White House
Washington: In a symbolic gesture, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to U.S. President Donald Trump during a White House meeting. The encounter marked the first face-to-face meeting between Machado and Trump and came amid heightened discussions about Venezuela’s political future.
White House officials confirmed that President Trump accepted the medal and intends to keep it, viewing the gesture as recognition of his role in supporting Venezuela’s democratic aspirations. Trump described the presentation as a symbol of mutual respect and praised Machado’s dedication to her country’s freedom.
Despite the presentation, the Nobel Institute in Norway clarified that the award legally remains Machado’s and cannot be transferred, divided, or revoked. The event, however, highlights the political messaging surrounding U.S.-Venezuelan relations, as Trump has previously expressed interest in the Nobel Peace Prize and voiced disappointment when Machado received it last month.
During her visit, Machado also met with members of the U.S. Congress to discuss Venezuela’s political and economic situation. Trump emphasized that his administration remains focused on restoring democratic governance, ensuring U.S. access to Venezuela’s oil sector, and supporting economic recovery in the country.
The meeting occurred shortly after the arrest of former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, which has sparked renewed hopes for democratic transition. While Trump acknowledged Machado’s efforts and leadership, he reiterated that her current support base may not yet be sufficient to assume leadership of Venezuela.
This historic White House engagement underscores ongoing U.S. involvement in Venezuela’s democratic and political processes, highlighting both symbolic gestures and practical policy priorities.
