Speaking on behalf of the “people of Bolivar,” Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to President Donald Trump. The presentation took place during a meeting at the White House on Thursday. Machado used the phrase to link the current struggle in Venezuela to the legacy of Simon Bolivar.
Machado compared her gesture to that of the Marquis de Lafayette, who gave a medal to Bolivar during the independence wars. She stated that after 200 years, the favor was being returned to the “heir of Washington.” This historical narrative framed the meeting as a significant event.
The gift appeals to Trump, who has openly coveted the Nobel Peace Prize. However, the Norwegian Nobel Committee clarified that the prize cannot be transferred. The accolade remains with Machado, regardless of the medal’s location.
Politically, the meeting was a success for Machado, who described it as “great.” This comes despite Trump’s previous criticism of her leadership and his focus on U.S. oil interests. Trump has threatened interim president Delcy Rodriguez with force to ensure compliance with oil demands.
Machado emphasized that Trump cares about the suffering of the Venezuelan people. “We are counting on President Trump,” she said. The gift of the medal serves as a dramatic symbol of her commitment to the U.S. alliance.
