María Corina Machado says she presented Trump with her Nobel peace prize medal
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado made global headlines after revealing that she personally presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to U.S. President Donald Trump during a high-profile meeting at the White House. Whether symbolic or substantive, the gesture has sparked intense discussion about Venezuela’s political future, U.S. involvement, and Machado’s own standing on the world stage.
A Symbolic Gesture with Global Implications
Speaking to reporters after leaving the White House, Machado said she handed Trump her Nobel Peace Prize medal as a mark of gratitude for what she described as his “unique commitment” to Venezuela’s freedom. Trump later confirmed on social media that Machado had left the medal with him, calling it a “wonderful gesture of mutual respect.”
It’s important to note that the Nobel Institute clarified that the prize itself cannot be transferred. Still, the act carried powerful symbolism—especially given Trump’s long-standing interest in the Nobel Peace Prize and his recent, controversial role in Venezuela’s political upheaval.
Praise, But Also Skepticism
While the White House publicly praised Machado as a “remarkable and brave voice,” officials also stressed that Trump’s skepticism about her ability to lead Venezuela has not changed. The administration has signaled openness to working with interim President Delcy Rodríguez, a former ally of Nicolás Maduro, who was ousted and later captured by U.S. forces.
Machado herself acknowledged that the meeting offered few concrete assurances, particularly regarding the timing of democratic elections in Venezuela. Still, she struck an optimistic tone, telling supporters gathered outside the White House, “We can count on President Trump.”
From Hiding to the World Stage
Machado’s presence in Washington marked her first major public appearance in weeks. She had spent nearly 11 months in hiding inside Venezuela before traveling abroad, where her daughter accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf. Her journey—from underground resistance leader to Nobel laureate meeting U.S. power brokers—underscores her enduring influence, even as political realities remain complex.
Venezuela’s Uncertain Road Ahead
Despite Maduro’s removal, much of Venezuela’s state machinery remains intact, with Rodríguez overseeing day-to-day governance. Trump has offered no clear timetable for elections, saying support for democracy will come “when the time is right.” Lawmakers who met Machado later on Capitol Hill said she warned that delays in a democratic transition could worsen instability.
In short, Machado’s Nobel medal presentation was less about ownership and more about message—a dramatic reminder that Venezuela’s struggle for democracy is far from over, and that global attention, especially from Washington, still matters.
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