Venezuela Leader Machado's White House Meeting with Trump Sparks Nobel Prize Controversy - Punjabi News

Published on: 16 Jan 2026 at 09:21 AM

Venezuela Leader Machado’s White House Meeting with Trump Sparks Nobel Prize Controversy

Published by: Gill Bikram

Venezuela Leader Machado’s White House Meeting with Trump Sparks Nobel Prize Controversy

Washington, White House – U.S. President Donald Trump hosted Venezuela’s bold opposition leader, Maria Corina Machado, in a meeting that captured global attention. The encounter featured a dramatic moment when Machado attempted to gift her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Trump.

Emotional Gesture Amid Tensions
Machado sought to present the medal to Trump as a token of gratitude for his support against Venezuela’s dictatorship. This heartfelt act highlighted her appreciation for U.S. backing in her nation’s struggle.

Trump’s Long-Standing Nobel Claim
Trump has repeatedly asserted his eligibility for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his role in preventing conflicts, including the India-Pakistan standoff and other global tensions. The gesture reignited discussions around his past declarations.

U.S. Stance on Venezuela
While the White House praised Machado’s courage, it clarified that, per Trump’s assessment, she currently lacks the full support needed to lead Venezuela effectively.

Nobel Institute’s Firm Response
The Norwegian Nobel Institute quickly issued a statement following Machado’s offer. It emphasized that once a Nobel Peace Prize is awarded, it cannot be transferred, shared, or reassigned to another individual. The committee’s decision is final, and the prize remains permanently with its original recipient.

Venezuela’s Ongoing Crisis
The meeting comes as Venezuela grapples with severe economic and political turmoil. The Trump administration has launched a robust campaign against President Nicolas Maduro. In an interview with Fox News, Machado expressed her desire to dedicate the prize to both Trump and the Venezuelan people, framing it as their shared fight for freedom.

In summary, though Machado’s gesture was a noble act of respect, Nobel Institute rules ensure Donald Trump cannot officially claim ownership of the award.