Trump Holds Onto Nobel Medal from Machado As Venezuela Dialogue Continues

US President Donald Trump has announced his decision to retain a Nobel Peace Prize medal presented to him by Venezuelan opposition leader María Machado. He made this announcement via social media, characterizing Machado's gift as a “wonderful gesture of mutual respect” aimed at acknowledging his dedication.

In their meeting, Machado described the conversation as “excellent” and emphasized that the medal symbolizes Trump’s resolve toward the Venezuelan people's liberty. Nevertheless, the Norwegian Nobel Institute clarified that although Trump may hold the medal, the actual prize is non-transferable and remains with Machado.

This meeting was their first face-to-face encounter, which lasted just over an hour and was followed by Machado engaging with over a dozen US senators, where she encountered mixed sentiments of support and cautious hopes.

The visit comes after Trump had dismissed the prospect of appointing Machado as Venezuela’s leader to succeed the ousted Nicolás Maduro. Although Trump campaigned for the prize before Machado's selection, he had voiced disappointment at not being chosen.

During their discussion, White House staff noted that Trump was eager to meet with Machado but emphasized that she currently lacks the political backing to lead Venezuela in the near term.

Machado, who made a daring escape from Venezuela via sea last December, is actively appealing to US lawmakers and officials to ensure her influence in the governance of Venezuela. Her initiatives arise as US and international optimism grows, anticipating that the recent capture of Maduro may facilitate democratic transitions.

Democratic Senator Chris Murphy, who met with Machado, reiterated her concerns about the escalating oppression in Venezuela, mentioning that interim President Delcy Rodríguez continues to secure authority. Murphy expressed cautious hope for forthcoming elections but recognized the significant hurdles ahead.

Trump has repeatedly stressed the priority of ensuring US access to Venezuela’s oil resources and enhancing economic recovery efforts. He has also complimented Rodríguez for being “very good to deal with,” despite Maduro's recent capture.

Machado has been prohibited from participating in the Venezuelan 2024 presidential election by a court associated with Maduro. While opposition supporters assert that a candidate favored by Machado won a significant victory in a recent election, Maduro remains in power.

The Venezuelan government has recently released a number of political prisoners, though analysts argue that the magnitude of these releases may be overstated. In her address to lawmakers, Rodríguez called for diplomatic relations with the US and proposed reforms in the oil sector to attract international investment, highlighting her administration’s commitment to national sovereignty.