Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado highlighted President Donald Trump’s “unique commitment” to her country on Thursday, presenting him with her Nobel Peace Prize medal. The event occurred during a meeting at the White House, which Machado termed “great.” She told reporters the gift was a symbol of gratitude for Trump’s support.
The presentation of the medal is a nod to Trump’s desire for the Nobel Peace Prize. While Machado handed over the award, the Norwegian Nobel Committee clarified that the prize is non-transferable. The laureate’s name remains unchanged, regardless of who holds the medal.
Machado drew a parallel to the Marquis de Lafayette and Simon Bolivar to explain the gift. She stated that the “people of Bolivar” were giving back to the “heir of Washington.” This comparison seeks to place the U.S.-Venezuela relationship in a historical context.
The meeting stands in contrast to Trump’s previous dismissal of Machado. He has called her unfit and questioned her leadership. His administration has also been pressuring interim president Delcy Rodriguez regarding U.S. oil firms, using threats of force as leverage.
Machado, however, focused on the positive. She insisted that Trump knows the situation and cares about the suffering of the Venezuelan people. The gift of the medal serves as a strategic attempt to solidify the alliance and ensure continued U.S. backing.