María Corina Machado Presents Nobel Peace Prize Medal to Trump in Symbolic Gesture

The Chronify

January 16, 2026

Venezuelan Opposition Leader Honors Trump for His "Commitment to Freedom" Despite Political Tensions

María Corina Machado, the Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient, presented her gold Nobel Peace Prize medal to Donald Trump during a meeting at the White House on January 15, 2026. Machado, awarded the prestigious prize for her fight against the authoritarian regime of Nicolás Maduro, explained that the gesture was made to recognize Trump's unique commitment to Venezuela's freedom.

Trump later shared the moment on social media, calling it a "wonderful gesture of mutual respect," displaying the medal framed with a text acknowledging Trump's actions to support Venezuela's liberation. However, the Nobel organizers quickly reminded that while medals can change owners, the Nobel Peace Prize title remains unchanged.

Despite her award, Machado's political future remains uncertain. After Trump’s decision to endorse Maduro’s vice-president, Delcy Rodríguez, as Venezuela’s acting president, Machado has struggled to regain Trump’s favor. Her presentation of the Nobel medal was seen by analysts as an effort to salvage her political position and the future of her movement in Venezuela.