Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel expressed strong disapproval on Friday towards the Norwegian Nobel Committee's decision to honor Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado with the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her advocacy of democratic rights in Venezuela. "The political bias and degradation of the Norwegian Nobel Peace Committee have reached astounding levels," Díaz-Canel posted on his official account on the social media platform X.
In a follow-up message, he stated, "It is disgraceful to award this prize in 2025 to someone who has called for military intervention in her homeland and previously incited street protests where people were burned alive."
Concluding his remarks, the Cuban president extended his unwavering support to the Nicolás Maduro regime: "We strongly reject this political maneuver aiming to single out #Venezuela and undermine its Bolivarian leadership, headed by its legitimate President, Nicolás Maduro Moros."
This Friday, María Corina Machado was celebrated for her "tireless work in promoting the democratic rights of the Venezuelan people and her struggle to achieve a fair and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy," according to the Nobel Committee's official statement released from Oslo.
Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chairman of the Committee, described her as "a brave and dedicated defender of peace," affirming that Machado "keeps the flame of democracy alive amidst growing darkness."
The opposition leader responded with emotion upon receiving the Committee's call: "Oh my God... I am speechless. It's an honor, and I know it's fantastic news for the people of Venezuela."
On her social media, Machado dedicated the award to the Venezuelans and reiterated her commitment to freedom: "This immense recognition of the struggle of all Venezuelans is a push to complete our mission: to conquer Freedom."
She also expressed gratitude for international support: "Today, more than ever, we stand with President Trump, the people of the United States, the people of Latin America, and the democratic nations of the world."
With this award, Machado becomes the first Venezuelan to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, establishing herself as one of the most influential figures in Latin America today. Her leadership in the democratic movement in Venezuela has been pivotal in uniting the opposition against the chavista regime and advocating for free elections and a peaceful transition in the South American country.
Insights on Díaz-Canel's Response to the Nobel Peace Prize
Why did Díaz-Canel criticize the Nobel Committee?
Díaz-Canel criticized the Nobel Committee for awarding María Corina Machado the Peace Prize, accusing the committee of political bias and claiming that Machado supports military intervention and violent protests.
What was the Nobel Committee's reason for awarding María Corina Machado?
The Nobel Committee awarded María Corina Machado for her relentless efforts in advocating for democratic rights in Venezuela and her commitment to achieving a peaceful transition to democracy.
How did María Corina Machado react to winning the Nobel Peace Prize?
María Corina Machado expressed surprise and honor upon receiving the award, dedicating it to the Venezuelan people and reaffirming her dedication to the cause of freedom.