On Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado might play a role in the ongoing situation in Venezuela. His comments came ahead of a planned meeting with her in Washington next week, during which he claims she intends to personally present him with a Nobel Peace Prize.
When asked about the meeting and the prize, Trump remarked, "I have to talk to her. She may be involved in some aspect of this. I'll have to speak with her," without specifying what role Machado might assume or in what areas she could be involved. He noted it was "very nice" of her to want to visit and reiterated, "I'm looking forward to it."
The statement arose amid questions about whether the potential gesture of the Nobel might alter Trump's stance on Machado's position in Venezuela. Trump emphasized the necessity of speaking with her first and linked this to his foreign policy narrative, boasting about having "ended eight wars" and claiming there's no one "in history" who deserves the Nobel more than he does—contrasting himself with former President Barack Obama, whom he criticized for receiving the award "almost immediately" upon taking office.
Earlier this week, Trump told Fox News he anticipated welcoming Machado to Washington and would consider it "a great honor" to receive the Nobel as a token of gratitude for the military action leading to Nicolás Maduro's capture. During the conversation, host Sean Hannity mentioned that Machado had secured over 92% of the vote to lead the opposition in 2023, although she was barred from the presidential race by the Chavista regime.
The article highlights a contrast between Trump's interest in meeting with Machado and his previous statements following Maduro's arrest, where he allegedly claimed she lacked the support and respect needed to lead Venezuela.
However, the Norwegian Nobel Institute reiterated that the Nobel Prize "cannot be revoked or transferred" and that once a winner is announced, "the decision is final"; while recipients can choose how to use the prize money, they cannot transfer the recognition itself.
Trump did not elaborate on what Machado's involvement might entail or whether her role would be formal or advisory, only stating that he "has to talk to her" and that she "might be involved" in "some aspect" of the Venezuelan process.
Insights on Trump's Meeting with María Corina Machado
What role might María Corina Machado play in Venezuela according to Trump?
President Trump hinted that Machado could be involved in some aspect of the process in Venezuela, though he did not specify what role she might assume.
Why is María Corina Machado visiting Washington?
Machado is visiting Washington to meet with President Trump and reportedly intends to present him with a Nobel Peace Prize as a gesture of appreciation.
What is the significance of the Nobel Peace Prize in this context?
The Nobel Peace Prize is significant as Trump has linked it to his foreign policy achievements, claiming he deserves it more than any other historical figure, contrasting his views with those on Barack Obama's award.