Machado Presents Nobel Peace Prize Medal to Trump During Washington Meeting

World 10:23 AM - 2026-01-16

Trump and Machado.

The United States’ President Donald Trump has met with Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado in Washington, holding talks focused on political change in Venezuela and wider regional stability.

The meeting, which took place at the White House, comes as the United States continues to increase diplomatic pressure on President Nicolás Maduro’s government following disputed elections and ongoing human rights concerns.

During the talks, Trump praised Machado’s role in mobilising Venezuela’s opposition and described her as a “brave and determined leader” in the fight for democratic reform.  Machado, who has emerged as the most prominent figure challenging the Maduro administration, has been barred from holding public office in Venezuela but remains a key symbol of the opposition movement.

Symbolic Nobel Gesture

The meeting drew international attention after  Machado presented Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize medal, which she was awarded for her advocacy of democratic change. The gesture was described by US officials as symbolic, underscoring shared opposition to authoritarianism in the region.

The Nobel Committee has previously stated that the prize itself cannot be transferred or shared, meaning Trump does not become a Nobel laureate. The medal remains a personal gift rather than an official award.

US Position on Venezuela

Trump reiterated his administration’s support for a peaceful political transition in Venezuela, calling for free elections and the release of political prisoners. He also warned that further economic and diplomatic measures remain on the table if democratic progress is not made.

Machado, for her part, urged continued international pressure on the Maduro government, arguing that sustained external support is critical to achieving change inside the country.

Sources: Reuters, ABC News, and The Guardian

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