Venezuelan opposition leader and 2025 Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado presented her Nobel medal to US President Donald Trump. The meeting, held on Thursday and publicized by the White House on Friday, January 16, 2026, serves as a “gesture of appreciation” following the recent US-led military operation that resulted in the removal of Nicolas Maduro from power.
The physical medal was presented in a gilded frame featuring an inscription that praised President Trump for his “extraordinary leadership in promoting peace through strength.” Machado described the gift as a personal symbol of gratitude from the Venezuelan people, acknowledging the President’s decisive actions to secure the nation’s freedom.
Okay News reports that President Trump expressed his gratitude for the “wonderful gesture of mutual respect” in a statement shared on social media shortly after the meeting. The President praised Machado as a “remarkable and brave voice” and a woman who has endured immense challenges in her struggle for democratic reform.
While the Norwegian Nobel Committee has previously noted that the title of laureate is non-transferable, the physical handover of the medallion has been viewed by analysts as a powerful diplomatic move by Machado to solidify her standing with the current U.S. administration.
The high-level discussion touched upon the ongoing transition in Venezuela and the role of the interim government currently led by Delcy Rodriguez. Machado, who recently emerged from hiding and traveled to Washington, used the opportunity to emphasize the need for a swift return to democratic elections and the reunification of Venezuelan families. She likened the moment to a historical reciprocal gesture, referring to herself as a “daughter of Bolivar” recognizing the “heir of Washington.”
Following the private meeting, Machado was greeted by crowds of cheering supporters outside the White House gates. She assured the gathered public that they can “count on President Trump” as the nation enters a new political era. The visit concluded with further meetings on Capitol Hill, where Machado continued to advocate for international support for a stable and prosperous Venezuela.
