The Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who stunned observers by dedicating the honor to U.S. President Donald Trump. The Norwegian Nobel Committee announced the decision on Friday, recognizing Machado’s efforts to combat authoritarianism in Venezuela.
In a statement posted on social media, Machado said: “This recognition of the struggle of all Venezuelans is a boost to conclude our task: to conquer Freedom. We are on the threshold of victory and today, more than ever, we count on President Trump, the people of the United States, the peoples of Latin America, and the democratic nations of the world as our principal allies to achieve Freedom and democracy.” She added, “I dedicate this prize to the suffering people of Venezuela and to President Trump for his decisive support of our cause!”
Machado, a 58-year-old industrial engineer living in hiding, was barred from running for president in 2024 by Venezuelan courts. Her exclusion came amid ongoing tensions with President Nicolas Maduro, who has led the country since 2013. During a phone call with Nobel Committee secretary Kristian Berg Harpviken, Machado expressed humility, stating, “I have no words… I thank you so much, but I hope you understand this is a movement, this is an achievement of a whole society. I am just one person. I certainly do not deserve it.”
The decision has sparked unexpected reactions, with some highlighting Trump’s longstanding claims that he deserved the prize. The award marks a notable shift in the committee’s focus, as Machado’s dedication to Trump underscores a unique political alignment.