Written by Intern Rency Gomes, Team Allycaral
Washington, January 15, 2026: President Donald Trump received the Nobel Peace Prize medal from Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado during a meeting at the White House on Thursday, in what both described as a symbolic gesture of mutual respect and gratitude.
Machado, who was awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to promote democracy and a peaceful transition in Venezuela, presented the medal as a thank-you for what she termed Trump’s “unique commitment with our freedom,” referring to U.S. actions and diplomatic support against the regime of Nicolás Maduro.
President Trump later acknowledged the gesture on his social media platform, describing it as a “wonderful gesture of mutual respect” and expressing appreciation for Machado’s leadership and resolve.
However, the Norwegian Nobel Institute has reiterated that while a physical medal may change hands, the Nobel Peace Prize itself is non-transferable. The official laureate status and title remain solely with Machado, as per Nobel Foundation rules.
The meeting also highlighted ongoing debates surrounding Venezuela’s political future. While Trump has previously expressed doubts about Machado’s leadership prospects, the interaction underscored continued engagement between the Venezuelan opposition and U.S. political leadership.
The unusually public presentation of a Nobel medal at the White House has drawn global attention, reinforcing the symbolic — rather than official — nature of the gesture.
