Reuters
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado presented the medal for her Nobel Peace Prize to President Donald Trump at a private White House meeting on Thursday, though it remains unclear if he accepted it. The gesture occurred amid a complex political landscape following the recent seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in Caracas by U.S.forces.
Following the White House meeting, Machado addressed supporters gathered outside, telling them in Spanish, according to the Associated Press: “We can count on President Trump.”
“I presented the president of the United States the medal of the Nobel Peace prize,” machado told journalists in English, describing it as “a recognition for his unique commitment with our freedom.”
Whether Trump accepted the award remains unknown. Trump, who has frequently expressed a desire to receive the Nobel Peace prize himself, had previously voiced displeasure when the award was given to Machado, though she ultimately decided to accept the honor last year.
machado had indicated last week she would share the medal with Trump, but the Nobel Committee clarified that the award is not transferable.
during her visit to washington, Machado also met with U.S. senators. Her remarks to reporters were ofen drowned out by supporters chanting “María, presidente” and waving Venezuelan flags.
Machado reportedly aimed to persuade Trump that supporting Rodríguez’s interim government would be a mistake, arguing that her opposition coalition should lead the transition.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated during the meeting on Thursday that Machado is “a remarkable and brave voice for many of the people of venezuela.”
Trump has previously labeled her a “freedom fighter,” but has resisted appointing her to lead Venezuela following Maduro’s removal, citing concerns about her domestic support.
“The president was looking forward to this meeting and expecting a frank and positive discussion,” Leavitt said. “he wants to hear directly from ms Machado about the realities on the ground in venezuela and what is taking place in the country.”
Since Maduro was seized on January 3,the administration has moved swiftly to reshape Venezuela’s oil sector,which had been subject to U.S. sanctions. On Wednesday, an American official announced the completion of the first sale of Venezuelan oil, valued at $500 million (£373 million).
