Maria Corina Machado, the recipient of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, announced that she presented the award to Donald Trump during a meeting in the Oval Office today.
Speculation arose that Machado, a prominent figure in the Venezuelan opposition, might assume leadership following Trump’s recent intervention, which ousted dictator Nicolas Maduro.
However, reports indicated that Trump’s enthusiasm waned as Machado, despite praising him, did not decline her Nobel Prize but instead offered it to him.
Since the intervention, Machado has appeared sporadically on US media, seemingly aiming to garner support from the US president to reconsider and appoint her as interim President.
After the meeting, Machado confirmed she handed her medal to Trump, citing his exceptional dedication to their shared cause of freedom.
She drew a historical parallel, referencing General Lafayette presenting a medal to Simon Bolivar with George Washington’s likeness, symbolizing unity in the fight against tyranny. Machado highlighted the reciprocal gesture of presenting the Nobel Peace Prize medal to Trump in acknowledgment of his commitment to freedom.
Prior to the meeting, Trump described Machado as a pleasant individual, suggesting they would discuss fundamental matters. However, following the US intervention in Venezuela, Trump expressed doubts about Machado’s leadership capabilities, citing a lack of support and respect within the country.
In response to rumors of her plan, the Nobel Committee clarified that the Nobel Prize is non-transferrable, emphasizing the finality and perpetual nature of the decision.
After concluding her discussions with Trump, Machado exited the White House, where she greeted a supportive crowd near the gate, exchanging embraces with many and expressing gratitude for President Trump’s backing.
She then proceeded to Capitol Hill, commencing a meeting with bipartisan senators by individually acknowledging lawmakers. Machado interacted cordially with the attendees, sharing warm gestures, including embracing Republican Senator Ted Cruz.
Photographs were taken with the group before Machado engaged in private discussions with the senators.