The Norwegian Nobel Institute has clarified that Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado cannot transfer or share her recently awarded Nobel Peace Prize with former President Donald Trump. The organization released a statement on September 29, 2023, emphasizing that once the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded, it is final and cannot be altered.
“The decision is final and stands for all time,” the Nobel Institute stated. This announcement follows Machado’s comments suggesting she would like to share the recognition with Trump due to his role in the U.S. operation that led to the capture of Venezuela’s authoritarian leader, Nicolas Maduro, who is currently facing drug trafficking charges in New York.
During an appearance on Fox News, Machado expressed her desire to personally inform Trump that the Venezuelan people, whom she believes the prize represents, would like to honor him. “What he has done is historic. It’s a huge step towards a democratic transition,” she said. Shortly after the award announcement, she dedicated the prize to Trump and the Venezuelan people.
Trump, who has long been an aspirant for the Nobel Prize himself, responded positively to Machado’s proposal during his own interview with Fox News. He remarked, “I’ve heard that she wants to do that, that would be a great honor.” He also mentioned that Machado is expected to visit Washington next week and expressed his eagerness to meet her.
While acknowledging Machado’s contributions, Trump indicated that he currently supports Delcy Rodriguez, acting President of Venezuela and former vice president under Maduro, as a suitable leader for the country post-Maduro. He described Machado as a “very nice woman” but stated that she lacks the necessary support within Venezuela to govern effectively.
In a separate interview with CBS Evening News anchor Tony Dokoupil, Machado asserted her readiness to lead the country, replying affirmatively when asked if she should be Venezuela’s next leader. She pointed out that her coalition has a president-elect, Edmundo Gonzalez, who has been recognized by the U.S. and other governments as the winner of the 2024 election against Maduro. “We are ready and willing to serve our people, as we have been mandated,” she declared.
As the political landscape in Venezuela continues to evolve, the Nobel Peace Prize debate adds another layer of complexity, highlighting the intersection of international recognition and local governance dynamics.
