Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado presented President Donald Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize medal at the White House on Thursday, stating she did so on behalf of the people of Venezuela.
The ceremony occurred during a visit where Machado described it as “a very emotional moment.” When asked why she chose to present the medal, she stated that Trump “deserves” it for his role in promoting peace through strength.
The gesture followed mixed reactions to the January 3 capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro by U.S. forces, with few figures showing greater support for the action than Machado.
The Nobel Peace Prize medal was presented within a large golden frame bearing the inscription: “To President Donald J. Trump in Gratitude for Your Extraordinary Leadership in Promoting Peace Through Strength.”
Afterward, Trump wrote on Truth Social: “Máría presented me with her Nobel Peace Prize for the work I have done. Such a wonderful gesture of mutual respect. Thank you Máría!”
A White House official confirmed that Trump intends to keep the medal.
