Trump Receives Nobel Peace Prize from Venezuelan Leader Machado as Symbolic Gesture of Gratitude

Maria Corina Machado presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Donald Trump during a White House meeting.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Donald Trump during a meeting at the White House on 15 January 2026, saying it was a recognition of his commitment to her country's freedom.

After meeting Trump in person for the first time, Machado considered that day as a historic day for Venezuelans, weeks after US forces seized Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in Caracas and charged him in a drug-trafficking case. She also stated that, the gift was in appreciation of Trump's "unique commitment" to the freedom of the Venezuelan people and his part in employing international pressure on Nicolás Maduro's administration.

According to the Associated Press, Machado addressed the fans who were gathered at the gates outside the White House after leaving, saying in Spanish, "We can count on President Trump." And Trump called Machado a wonderful woman who has been through so much and said it was a "great honor" to meet her. In a social media post, Trump expressed his appreciation, calling the action as a wonderful gesture of mutual respect.

Given that Trump has essentially sidelined Machado, who has long been the face of opposition in Venezuela; the act was remarkable even if it turns out to be just symbolic. He has indicated that he is open to collaborating with Maduro's former second-in-command, acting President Delcy Rodríguez.

Trump, who frequently talks about wanting to win the Nobel Peace Prize, was initially upset when Machado was granted it last year and she chose to accept it. The Nobel Committee then emphasized that it was not transferable, despite Machado's declaration last week that she would give it to Trump.

According to a statement released by the committee last week, once a Nobel Prize winner is announced, it cannot be revoked, shared, or transferred to others. It said that the decision is final and stands for all time.