Trump Retains Nobel Medal from Machado Amid Ongoing Venezuela Discussions

US President Donald Trump has announced his decision to retain a Nobel Peace Prize medal gifted to him by Venezuelan leader María Machado. On social media, Trump highlighted that Machado's presentation of the medal was a “wonderful gesture of mutual respect” towards his endeavors.

During their meeting, Machado described the interaction as “excellent,” indicating that the medal symbolizes Trump's dedication to the Venezuelan people's liberty. However, the Norwegian Nobel Institute emphasized that although Trump may keep the medal, the prize itself remains untransferable to him.

This rendezvous marked the inaugural face-to-face discussion between Trump and Machado, lasting slightly over an hour. Following their meeting, Machado met with several US senators, receiving a mix of support and cautious optimism.

This visit follows Trump’s rejection of the idea of installing Machado as a successor to the ousted Nicolás Maduro. Prior to Machado’s winning the prize, Trump campaigned for it but expressed disappointment at not being awarded.

While meeting with Machado, White House officials indicated that Trump looked forward to their discussion, yet he maintained that she currently lacks the political backing necessary to lead Venezuela in the immediate future.

Machado, who made a daring escape from Venezuela in December, is actively working with US lawmakers to secure a significant role in the future governance of her country. Her advocacy coincides with growing hopes among US and international officials that Maduro's recent capture might lead to democratic reforms.

Democratic Senator Chris Murphy, who met Machado, noted her comments on ongoing repression in Venezuela, highlighting Delcy Rodríguez's continued consolidation of power. Murphy expressed a cautious sense of optimism regarding forthcoming elections but recognized the numerous challenges that remain.

Trump has consistently stressed the need for the US to maintain access to Venezuela’s oil and to support its economic rebuilding. He also complimented Rodríguez for being “very good to deal with,” despite her association with Maduro.

Machado faces legal barriers preventing her from running in Venezuela’s 2024 presidential elections due to court rulings favoring Maduro. While opposition claims suggest a Machado-supported candidate won the elections by a notable margin, Maduro remains in power.

Recently, the Venezuelan government has released a number of political prisoners, although some observers argue that the magnitude of these releases might be overstated. Addressing lawmakers, Rodríguez called for diplomatic relations with the US and proposed reforms in the oil sector to draw foreign investments, while underscoring her country's sovereignty.