María Corina Machado Presents Nobel Peace Prize Medallion to President Trump
Meeting at the White House
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado presented President Donald Trump with her authentic Nobel Peace Prize medallion during her visit to the White House on January 15, 2026. The meeting marked a significant moment, as Machado expressed her gratitude for Trump’s role in the ousting of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
According to sources, Machado offered to share her Nobel Prize with Trump during their meeting, describing his actions as “historic” for Venezuelan democracy. Following the meeting, Machado shared details about the presentation with reporters at the Capitol, referring to the historical bond between the people of Venezuela and the United States.
A Symbol of Brotherhood
In her remarks, Machado drew a parallel between her gesture and a historical event from over two centuries ago. She noted, “Two hundred years ago, General Lafayette gave Simon Bolivar a medal with George Washington’s face on it, which Bolivar kept for the rest of his life.” She emphasized that her presentation of the Nobel medallion symbolizes the enduring bond between the two nations in their shared fight for freedom.
While Machado had previously hinted at the possibility of sharing her Nobel Prize with Trump, she reiterated her intentions to acknowledge his support for Venezuelan freedom, stating to Fox News, “What he has dstart is historic. It’s a huge step towards a democratic transition.”
Nobel Committee’s Response
The Norwegian Nobel Committee responded to Machado’s offer by clarifying that the Nobel Peace Prize cannot be shared or transferred. Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the committee, affirmed that “A medal can change owners, but the title of a Nobel Peace Prize laureate cannot.”
Machado received the Nobel Peace Prize for her role as a unifying figure in the Venezuelan opposition, which has historically been fragmented. Her recognition stems from her advocacy for free elections and representative government amidst Venezuela’s ongoing political turmoil.
Political Landscape
Despite Machado’s efforts and recognition, the Trump administration has been relatively silent regarding a democratic transition in Venezuela. Currently, Delcy Rodríguez serves as Venezuela’s interim president after Maduro’s arrest. Trump has described Rodríguez as a “terrific person” but has yet to endorse Machado as a potential presidential candidate, citing concerns about her lack of support and respect within Venezuela.
When asked whether she believes she is the right leader for Venezuela, Machado affirmed that “the people of Venezuela have already chosen,” expressing confidence in her coalition’s readiness to serve the nation in a post-Maduro era.
Implications and International Actions
Following the White House meeting, the Pentagon confirmed the seizure of yet another oil tanker in the Caribbean, marking at least the sixth such action against vessels transporting Venezuelan oil. Recently, the U.S. has begun selling Venezuelan oil, with the first sale valued at $500 million. Trump indicated that the U.S. could sell up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that funds from these sales will likely begin to flow back to Venezuela soon.
The convergence of these events underscores the complex interplay between Venezuela’s internal political challenges and the international response, particularly from the United States, as it navigates its relationship with the opposition in Venezuela.