Trump Retains Nobel Medal Given by Machado During Venezuela Discussions

Post by : Mina Rahman

US President Donald Trump has announced his decision to keep the Nobel Peace Prize medal presented to him by Venezuelan opposition leader María Machado. He took to social media to express that the medal was a “wonderful gesture of mutual respect” for his support of the Venezuelan cause.

Describing their encounter as “excellent,” Machado emphasized that the honor acknowledged Trump’s dedication to the Venezuelan people's freedom. However, the Norwegian Nobel Institute has clarified that while Trump can possess the medal, the associated prize remains Machado’s and cannot be transferred or revoked.

This meeting marked the inaugural face-to-face dialogue between Trump and Machado, extending a little over an hour. Afterward, Machado went on to meet with more than a dozen US senators, garnering mixed reactions but also cautious enthusiasm.

The discussions occurred after Trump previously rejected the notion of installing Machado as Venezuela's leader to succeed the ousted Nicolás Maduro. Despite having campaigned for the prize prior to Machado's win, Trump expressed disappointment when he did not receive it himself.

During their meeting, White House officials indicated that Trump was eager to connect with Machado, although he maintained that she currently lacks the necessary political support to assume leadership in Venezuela in the near term.

Machado, who escaped Venezuela in December via a treacherous maritime route, is actively seeking engagement with US lawmakers and officials to secure her place in Venezuela’s future governance. Her endeavors align with rising US and global hopes that the recent capture of Maduro might lead to democratic changes.

Senator Chris Murphy, a democrat who met with Machado, noted her emphasis on the ongoing oppression within Venezuela, especially as interim President Delcy Rodríguez continues to strengthen her grip on power. Murphy conveyed cautious optimism regarding upcoming elections while also acknowledging significant obstacles.

Trump has consistently highlighted the need for the US to maintain access to Venezuela’s oil resources and support the country’s economic revival. He has recognized Rodríguez as “very good to deal with,” despite the complexities surrounding Maduro’s overthrow.

Machado has been barred from participating in Venezuela's 2024 presidential election by a court loyal to Maduro. While opposition figures assert that a candidate backed by Machado secured a considerable electoral victory, Maduro remains in control.

Recently, the Venezuelan government announced the release of certain political prisoners, although experts indicate that the extent of these releases may be overstated. In a recent speech, Rodríguez advocated for diplomatic relations with the US while proposing reforms in the oil sector to attract foreign investment, underlining her nation’s sovereignty.