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New Delhi: US President Donald Trump met Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado on Thursday (local time) at the White House. During the meeting, Machado presented her Nobel Peace Prize to Trump, describing the gesture as a “recognition of his unique commitment to our freedom.” Responding to this, the US President termed it a “wonderful gesture of mutual respect.”
The meeting assumes global significance as it could influence Venezuela’s future following the capture of its former leader, Nicolás Maduro. However, it remains unclear whether Trump formally accepted the medal, as no confirmation was provided by Machado.
Reacting to the gesture, Trump shared a post on Truth Social, saying, “It was my Great Honor to meet María Corina Machado, of Venezuela, today. She is a wonderful woman who has been through so much. María presented me with her Nobel Peace Prize for the work I have done. Such a wonderful gesture of mutual respect. Thank you, María!”
The high-level meeting was confirmed by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who described Machado as “a remarkable and brave voice for the people of Venezuela.” She added that the US President had anticipated a “good and positive discussion.”
Leavitt did not clarify whether Machado could lead Venezuela in the future, stating that Trump’s view on the matter “remained unchanged.” She further said that the US President remains committed to “seeing elections in Venezuela one day.”
Earlier, Trump had claimed that he deserved the Nobel Peace Prize for resolving several wars during his second term. However, the Nobel Committee has clarified that the prize cannot be transferred, shared or revoked. Even if Trump were to accept it, the award would officially remain with Machado.
Machado reportedly decided to present her Nobel Peace Prize to Trump after he expressed scepticism about her political standing in Venezuela, following a US military operation that led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro. According to a Washington Post report, Trump had earlier been reluctant to back Machado after she received the award last year.
