After the meeting at the White House, Machado, who became a Nobel Peace Prize laureate last year, informed journalists that she had presented Trump with her medal in recognition of his outstanding commitment to the freedom of Venezuela. She noted that the discussion went well, adding that her supporters can count on support from the U.S. president.
Donald Trump highly appreciated Machado's gesture, stating on social media: "Maria gave me the Nobel Peace Prize for my work. It was a wonderful gesture of mutual respect. Thank you, Maria!"
According to a source from the White House, Trump plans to keep the medal that Machado presented to him.
During the meeting, White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt noted that Trump believes Machado does not have enough support to become the country's leader in the near future.
On January 9, Trump expressed a desire to discuss with Machado issues related to governing Venezuela after taking power from Maduro. He noted that this discussion would be beneficial and that he was glad to have her visit.
The Nobel Institute in Norway, which is responsible for awarding the Peace Prize, denied rumors on January 9 about the possibility of transferring the award to another person. The institute emphasized that once awarded, the prize remains permanently with the laureate and cannot be revoked or shared.
Previously, Machado had expressed a desire to transfer the prize to Trump or share it with him. This occurred after Trump rejected the idea of appointing her as the interim leader of Venezuela, which, according to The Washington Post, was related to her not yielding the Nobel Peace Prize to him.
