Maria Corina Machado, the recipient of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, announced that she bestowed the award upon Donald Trump during their meeting in the Oval Office earlier today.
Initially, there were expectations that Machado, a prominent figure in the Venezuelan opposition, would be appointed as the country’s interim leader following Trump’s recent intervention, which led to the removal of dictator Nicolas Maduro.
However, reports indicated that Trump’s enthusiasm waned as Machado did not explicitly decline her Nobel Prize in favor of offering it to him, despite his positive remarks about her.
Since the intervention, Machado has been appearing sporadically on American news channels, seemingly aiming to influence the US president and secure her position as a temporary President through charm and persuasion.
After the meeting, Machado confirmed that she presented her medal to Trump, citing his dedication to their shared cause of freedom as the reason for her gesture.
In a historical reference, Machado likened the medal exchange to General Lafayette presenting a medal with George Washington’s likeness to Simon Bolivar, symbolizing solidarity in the fight against tyranny. She emphasized the significance of reciprocating this gesture by awarding Trump the Nobel Peace Prize as a token of appreciation for his commitment to their freedom.
Prior to their meeting, Trump described Machado as a pleasant individual and indicated a desire for a straightforward discussion between them.
However, following the US intervention in Venezuela, Trump expressed doubts about Machado’s ability to lead, citing a lack of support and respect from the country’s populace.
Upon rumors of her planned gesture, the Nobel Committee clarified that the Nobel Prize is non-transferrable once awarded and cannot be shared or transferred to others.
Following her meeting with Trump, Machado exited the White House, where she was greeted by a group of supporters at the gate, exchanging hugs with many as they cheered for her.
Addressing her supporters in Spanish, Machado expressed confidence in President Trump’s support. She then proceeded to Capitol Hill, where she engaged in a meeting with a bipartisan group of senators, initiating the session with individual greetings and warm interactions, including a hug for Republican Senator Ted Cruz.
Photographs were taken of Machado with the senatorial group before she participated in closed-door discussions with them.