Trump Retains Nobel Medal from Machado During Venezuela Discussions

US President Donald Trump has declared his intention to retain a Nobel Peace Prize medal that was presented to him by Venezuelan opposition leader María Machado. Trump took to social media to announce that Machado’s gesture symbolizes “a wonderful mutual respect” for his efforts regarding Venezuela.

Machado characterized their meeting as “excellent” and emphasized that the award acknowledges Trump's dedication to the Venezuelan people's freedoms. Nevertheless, the Norwegian Nobel Institute clarified that while Trump can keep the medal, the actual prize remains with Machado and cannot be transferred or revoked.

This encounter was the first in-person meeting between Trump and Machado, lasting just over an hour. Following this, Machado met with over a dozen U.S. senators, where she saw a blend of support and cautious skepticism.

Her visit occurred shortly after Trump turned down suggestions to position Machado as Venezuela’s leader following the ousting of Nicolás Maduro. Although Trump had campaigned for the Nobel before Machado's victory, he expressed disappointment at not being awarded it himself.

During the meeting, Trump’s officials mentioned his eagerness to meet Machado, but they maintained she lacks the political support necessary to govern Venezuela in the immediate future.

Machado, who escaped Venezuela last December through a daring sea journey, is actively lobbying U.S. lawmakers and officials to help secure her influence in Venezuela’s future governance. Her efforts come amidst rising hopes that Maduro's recent capture could trigger democratic reforms.

Democratic Senator Chris Murphy, after meeting with Machado, indicated she highlighted ongoing repression within Venezuela, referencing that interim President Delcy Rodríguez consolidates power. Murphy conveyed cautious optimism towards future elections while recognizing the hurdles ahead.

Trump has persistently stressed the necessity of gaining U.S. access to Venezuela’s oil and aiding in economic recovery. He also acknowledged Rodríguez, stating she has been “very good to deal with,” despite Maduro's capture.

Machado has been barred from the 2024 presidential race in Venezuela by courts loyal to Maduro. While opposition leaders claim that a candidate backed by Machado won the recent election, Maduro continues to hold power.

Recently, the Venezuelan government has begun releasing some political detainees, though many observers contend that the number of releases might be overstated. Rodríguez called for diplomatic engagement with the U.S. and proposed reforms in the oil industry to attract foreign investment, underscoring her country’s sovereignty.