Machado, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize last year for her long-standing advocacy for democratic rights and a peaceful transition in Venezuela
Digital Desk: The Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado presented her 2025 Nobel Peace Prize medal to U.S. President Donald Trump during a meeting at the White House on Thursday, in a highly unusual and symbolic gesture meant to honour what she described as his “unique commitment” to the freedom of the Venezuelan people.
Machado, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize last year for her long-standing advocacy for democratic rights and a peaceful transition in Venezuela, met Trump in Washington amid ongoing debate over the country’s future leadership following the capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces.
After their private meeting, Machado told reporters she had given Trump her Nobel medal as a sign of gratitude for his perceived support of Venezuelan freedom. A White House official later confirmed that the medal is now in Trump’s possession. Trump praised the gesture on his social media platform, calling it “a wonderful gesture of mutual respect” and lauding Machado as a “wonderful woman who has been through so much.”
However, the Norwegian Nobel Institute has clarified that while the physical medal may change hands, the Nobel Peace Prize itself — and the title of Nobel laureate — cannot be transferred once awarded. Machado remains the official laureate of the 2025 Peace Prize.
The meeting took place at a delicate moment in U.S.–Venezuela relations, with Trump previously expressing skepticism about Machado’s ability to lead a post-Maduro Venezuela. Instead, his administration has signalled support for Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro’s former vice-president, as acting president.
Following the White House encounter, Machado was met by cheering supporters outside, telling them, “We can count on President Trump,” a remark that drew chants of “Thank you, Trump.” The White House has not provided details of any specific commitments on future Venezuelan elections.
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