On Thursday, Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar hailed as "historic" the action taken by opposition leader María Corina Machado, who offered her Nobel Peace Prize medal to former President Donald Trump. Salazar emphasized that this gesture "speaks louder than any speech."
In a post on her Facebook page, Salazar remarked that the Venezuelan opposition leader honored the liberation efforts of the Venezuelan people and acknowledged Trump for his steadfast support "when it was most needed."
The Republican legislator suggested that Machado's actions exemplify "patriotism without calculation" and demonstrate leadership forged through sacrifice, despite years of persecution and exile.
Venezuelans Embrace Unselfish Act
Salazar also mentioned that Venezuelans "will never forget this selfless act of love for the nation."
Similarly, Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart took to X to praise the meeting between Trump and Machado at the White House, describing it as a pivotal moment for democracy and freedom.
Díaz-Balart praised the courage and leadership of the Venezuelan leader, noting that they reflect the Venezuelan people's overwhelming desire to reclaim their country.
Trump's Firm Commitment to Freedom
He further highlighted that Trump's "decisive and steadfast" leadership strengthens the United States' commitment to defending freedom and security in the region.
The Congress members' reactions came after Trump himself confirmed that Machado presented him with her Nobel Peace Prize medal during their meeting at the White House on Thursday.
Trump described the gesture as "a wonderful display of mutual respect" and publicly thanked the Venezuelan leader.
Symbolic Recognition for U.S. Support
Machado explained that the presentation of the medal was a symbolic acknowledgment of the U.S. President's "commitment to freedom," amid a political transition in Venezuela following the capture of Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores on January 3rd during a U.S. military operation in Caracas.
The Nobel Institute later clarified that the Nobel Peace Prize cannot be revoked or transferred, meaning the recognition officially remains with Machado.
Nonetheless, the gesture was interpreted as a sign of political rapprochement between the opposition leader and Trump, who had previously questioned her capability to lead Venezuela through its transition.
On social media, Venezuelan followers and exiles celebrated the act, expressed gratitude for U.S. government support, and praised Machado's leadership in guiding the Venezuelan people toward freedom.
Key Questions about María Corina Machado's Gesture
Why did María Corina Machado offer her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Trump?
Machado's act was a symbolic gesture to recognize Trump's commitment to freedom and his support for the Venezuelan people during a crucial time for the country's political transition.
Can the Nobel Peace Prize be transferred to someone else?
No, the Nobel Peace Prize cannot be revoked or transferred. The Nobel Institute clarified that the recognition officially remains with the original recipient, María Corina Machado.
How did Trump react to receiving the medal from Machado?
Trump expressed appreciation, calling it "a wonderful display of mutual respect," and publicly thanked the Venezuelan opposition leader for her gesture.