ibn sultan
US President Donald Trump has received a Nobel Peace Prize medal from Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, describing the move as a “wonderful gesture of mutual respect.” The two met at the White House, after which Trump praised Machado for presenting him what he called “her Nobel Peace Prize for the work I have done.”
Machado, regarded as the democratic leader-in-waiting by her supporters, said she handed over the medal in recognition of Trump’s “unique commitment to our freedom.” Speaking to reporters after the meeting, she said the gesture was meant as an acknowledgment of his role in supporting democratic aspirations in Venezuela.
However, the Nobel Institute has clarified that a Nobel Peace Prize cannot be transferred to another individual, making the act largely symbolic. Despite this, a White House official confirmed to news agency Reuters that President Trump intends to keep the medal.
The development comes amid uncertainty over US policy toward Venezuela. Trump has recently raised doubts about the timeline for restoring democratic rule, while also suggesting that Machado lacks sufficient support and respect within the country. Her party is widely believed to have won Venezuela’s disputed 2024 elections, which were rejected by President Nicolas Maduro.
Following the closed-door meeting, Machado addressed supporters gathered near the White House, telling them, “We can count on President Trump,” prompting chants of appreciation from the crowd. Machado had remained out of public view for months and previously spent nearly a year in hiding in Venezuela before traveling to Norway, where her daughter accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf.
