Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado arrived at the White House on Thursday, surrounded by tight security measures, to have a scheduled lunch with U.S. President Donald Trump.
This meeting comes just a day after President Trump referred to Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela's interim president, as an "amazing person," sparking widespread anticipation. The timing of Machado's visit has fueled rumors that she might offer her 2025 Nobel Peace Prize to Trump, recognizing her efforts in defending democratic rights in Venezuela and her steadfast opposition to Nicolás Maduro's regime.
President Trump has often expressed his desire for the Nobel recognition, claiming it is deserved due to his efforts to "restore freedom in the hemisphere." Machado's arrival in Washington follows the U.S. military operation on January 3rd, which resulted in the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife by Delta Force, an operation ordered by Trump himself.
Since then, Machado has consistently stated that her coalition won the 2024 elections and should lead the new Venezuelan government. Nevertheless, the Trump administration has temporarily decided to keep Rodríguez at the helm of the interim leadership, endorsing her efforts to stabilize the country during the transition period.
On Wednesday, Trump mentioned to reporters that he had a "great conversation" with Rodríguez, describing her as "an amazing and incredible person." White House officials noted that the meeting with Machado was requested by her and that the president agreed out of courtesy.
"There are shared interests," a source close to the National Security Council remarked, referring to the institutional reconstruction of Venezuela and the strategic relationship between Washington and Caracas in the post-Maduro era.
This week, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the current changes in Venezuela would have been impossible without Machado's involvement. Although Trump did not receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 2025, his meeting with the laureate could symbolize a gesture of reconciliation with the Venezuelan opposition, strengthening his regional leadership as the U.S. takes on a pivotal role in the country's democratic transition.
Key Aspects of María Corina Machado's Visit to the White House
Why did María Corina Machado visit the White House?
Machado visited the White House to meet with President Trump, following rumors of offering her Nobel Peace Prize and discussing shared interests in Venezuela's democratic transition.
What significance does Trump's meeting with Machado hold?
The meeting could symbolize reconciliation with the Venezuelan opposition and bolster Trump's leadership in the region, as the U.S. plays a key role in Venezuela's transition to democracy.
What was the outcome of the U.S. military operation on January 3rd?
The operation led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife by Delta Force, marking a significant shift in Venezuela's political landscape.