Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, made headlines after presenting her medal to US President Donald Trump during a White House meeting on January 15, 2026. The gesture was symbolic, aimed at securing stronger American support for Venezuela’s democratic transition amid political uncertainty.
Machado, a prominent critic of former President Nicolás Maduro, emphasized that the presentation was a sign of respect and appreciation for Trump’s efforts in backing Venezuela’s opposition. Speaking after the meeting, she described it as a personal gesture to highlight the importance of international solidarity in the country’s push for free and fair governance.
Trump accepted the medal graciously, calling the act “a wonderful gesture,” while officials clarified that the symbolic transfer does not alter the official status of the Nobel Peace Prize, which remains solely Machado’s. Nobel Committee rules confirm that the award cannot be transferred or revoked.
The meeting occurred during a sensitive period in Venezuela, following Maduro’s capture earlier in January and ongoing debates over the legitimacy of the interim leadership. Machado has been actively seeking international recognition for the opposition coalition, arguing that US support is crucial to stabilizing the country and advancing democratic reforms.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt praised Machado as “a courageous voice for the Venezuelan people,” highlighting her efforts to engage world leaders directly. While Trump appreciated the gesture, he did not endorse her political ambitions, reflecting the complex diplomatic situation between the US and Venezuela.
Machado’s initiative drew attention globally, underlining the role of personal diplomacy in international politics. By presenting her Nobel medal, she not only showcased her commitment to democratic values but also reinforced the importance of external support in shaping Venezuela’s political future.
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