María Corina Machado, an outspoken critic of Venezuela’s former leader Nicolás Maduro, recently visited the Trump White House. Their high-level meeting on new trade enforcement issues was at the White House on Thursday. The symbolism of this meeting was huge, marking another step in her campaign for a free democracy in Venezuela. Its significance increased further with her recent acknowledgment as a Nobel Peace Prize laureate. Machado, who won the award last year for her efforts to promote democracy, came bearing a symbolic gift: her Nobel medal.
Throughout the meeting, Machado made a point to highlight that Venezuela already has a president-elect: Edmundo González. She further stated her commitment towards formulating a “new, true electoral system” to lure expatriates back to their motherland. She characterized the unprecedented face time with Trump and his Administration as “historic” and “extraordinary.” Her words were filled with hope about what U.S. support could mean for her cause.
“Presented as a personal symbol of gratitude on behalf of the Venezuelan people in recognition of President Trump’s principled and decisive action to secure a free Venezuela.”
Machado commended the Trump administration’s recognition of the need to rebuild democratic institutions. She underscored their tireless efforts to protect human rights and free expression within her nation. Though they had each previously expressed concern about the future of U.S. support for her and González, Machado was in a buoyant mood, looking forward to working together.
Upon departure from the White House, Machado was photographed smiling while holding a Trump-branded swag bag, a memento from the visit. Trump acknowledged her gesture, stating, “Maria presented me with her Nobel Peace Prize for the work I have done. Such a wonderful gesture of mutual respect.”
The meeting and Machado’s political aspirations are not without controversy. She and other opposition leaders have been the subject of controversial claims of wrongdoing from U.S. and international watchdogs. Machado is deeply convinced that winning the Nobel Peace Prize is a tremendous force in the struggle for democracy. She continues to be a strong believer in this idea.
In response, the Oslo-based Nobel Peace Center went on record in unequivocal terms. Indeed, they assured, while Machado’s medal may not be shared or passed along, she nonetheless remains a Nobel laureate. This remarkable distinction highlights her impact in the continuing fight against Maduro’s oppressive regime.
