Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado has attributed her Nobel Peace Prize to the citizens of Venezuela and US President Donald Trump for his substantial backing of the country’s pro-democracy movement. In a statement, she expressed, “I dedicate this award to the Venezuelan people who are enduring hardships and to President Trump for his unwavering support of our cause.” Machado emphasized the crucial role of President Trump, the American people, Latin American nations, and other democratic countries in supporting their quest for freedom and democracy.
Having been in hiding in Venezuela for the past year following contested elections allegedly manipulated by authoritarian leader Nicolas Maduro, Machado campaigned for her representative, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, as she was prohibited from running in the election. Widely recognized by the international community as the rightful victor, Urrutia was supported by Machado in her efforts to advocate for democratic principles in Venezuela.
The Nobel Committee acknowledged Machado’s persistent endeavors in advocating for democratic rights in Venezuela and her commitment to facilitating a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy. Machado, aged 58, has endorsed President Trump’s strategic approach, including the deployment of US naval forces near Venezuela, as a necessary step towards achieving a democratic shift in the country.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared Machado’s gratitude towards President Trump on her social media platform. Various opposition leaders, such as former presidential candidate Henrique Capriles, extended their congratulations to Machado for her prestigious award. Capriles expressed hope that this recognition would further energize efforts to bring peace to Venezuela, end its suffering, and restore the freedom and democracy that the nation has long been striving for.