In a symbolic gesture during a White House meeting on Thursday, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado presented President Donald Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize medal.
The gesture comes as Trump, who has long been passed over for the prestigious award, hosted Machado for talks on the future of Venezuela. While the Nobel committee explicitly states that the prize cannot be shared or officially transferred, Machado offered the physical medal to the President during their exchange.
In return, President Trump reportedly presented Machado with a gift bag embossed with his signature.
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The meeting carried significant political weight beyond the ceremonial exchange. Following the ouster of Nicolás Maduro, Machado is actively seeking the President’s endorsement to lead Venezuela’s transition.
While Trump issued a broad statement supporting a “new, genuine electoral process” in the country, he stopped short of a direct endorsement of Machado’s candidacy.
Publicly, Trump has previously voiced skepticism regarding Machado’s ability to lead the nation, adding a layer of tension to her bid for American backing. The White House visit highlights the complex dynamic as the administration navigates the post-Maduro landscape in Venezuela.
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