On Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump echoed the words of opposition leader María Corina Machado after her receipt of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize by sharing her message on his social media platform, Truth. Although Trump himself was a nominee for the prestigious award, he chose not to add any personal commentary, simply reposting the activist's statement.
Earlier in the day, a member of Trump's administration harshly criticized the Nobel Committee's decision to award the prize to Machado, suggesting that the accolade was politically motivated rather than based on genuine peace efforts. Trump's nomination was always seen as a long shot, given the deadline for submissions was February 1st, a mere few weeks into his second term. This was before he claimed to have resolved “seven wars in seven months,” despite some conflicts remaining unresolved.
Trump's Ambitions for the Nobel Prize
President Trump has consistently criticized the Nobel Committee while actively seeking the award. In September, he warned that being overlooked again would be “an insult to our country,” as critics speculated about the unlikely conditions under which Trump might deserve the Nobel. Despite this, his response to Machado's post was noteworthy. She highlighted Washington's support for Venezuela's cause, stating, “We stand on the brink of victory, and today more than ever, we count on President Trump, the American people, the peoples of Latin America, and the democratic nations of the world as our main allies to achieve freedom and democracy. Venezuela will be free.”
Machado's Message to the World
Following the Nobel announcement, Machado released an open letter accepting the prize “on behalf of the people of Venezuela” and condemning the crimes of the Chavista regime. “Venezuelans have endured 26 years of violence and humiliation at the hands of a tyranny obsessed with subjugating its citizens,” she wrote. She acknowledged the sacrifices Venezuelans have made over more than two decades of oppression, exile, and crisis, noting the “indescribable costs: thousands of lives given and millions forced to leave their homeland.”
Machado emphasized that Venezuela is closer than ever to achieving its goal, viewing the award as a “unique boost” that renews hope both domestically and internationally. “The global democratic community understands and shares our struggle,” she stated. She expressed gratitude to international leaders, particularly President Trump, for their support: “Just as we have given everything in our civic struggle, the support of our genuine allies has been decisive.”
Trump's Endorsement of Machado's Efforts
By sharing Machado's message, Trump reaffirmed his administration's support for the democratic transition in Venezuela. In previous remarks, he has described the opposition leader as a central figure in the “restoration of freedom in Latin America.” The Nobel Committee recognized Machado for her civil leadership under extreme repression, highlighting the courage of her peaceful fight for democracy. The official award ceremony is set for December in Oslo, though the committee has noted potential “security considerations” if the regime prevents her from leaving the country.
FAQs on Trump's Reaction and Machado's Nobel Peace Prize
Why did Trump not comment further on Machado's Nobel Peace Prize?
Trump chose to simply share María Corina Machado's message without adding personal commentary, possibly to avoid controversy or speculation surrounding his own nomination for the prize.
How did the Nobel Committee justify awarding Machado the Peace Prize?
The Nobel Committee recognized María Corina Machado for her peaceful leadership and courage in the face of extreme repression while advocating for democracy in Venezuela.
What was the reaction of Trump's administration to Machado receiving the Nobel Peace Prize?
An official from Trump's administration criticized the Nobel Committee's decision, suggesting it was politically motivated rather than based on genuine peace efforts.