Nobel Peace Prize recipient María Corina Machado has expressed gratitude for U.S. President Donald Trump’s efforts “around the world for peace.” Machado, who has long campaigned against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, received the award for her advocacy against what many perceive as an illegitimate regime lasting over 12 years.
In a recent conversation with Trump, Machado shared her appreciation on behalf of the Venezuelan populace for his contributions to peace, democracy, and freedom both in the Americas and globally. Trump has previously indicated his desire for a Nobel Prize, frequently emphasizing claims of his role in ending conflicts.
Nominations for the Nobel Prize closed in January, coinciding with the onset of Trump’s second presidential term. A White House official has suggested that the Nobel Committee is politically motivated, prioritizing politics over peace. Machado indicated her pleasure in communicating with the president and expressing gratitude.
At 58 years old, Machado, who has spent significant time in hiding due to threats against her, was described by the Nobel Committee as a symbol of civilian courage in Latin America. The committee recognized her dedication to achieving a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy, highlighting her decision to remain in Venezuela despite serious risks to her safety.
Last year, she was barred from participating in the presidential elections, where Maduro secured a third term, with the process widely condemned as neither free nor fair. Despite facing obstacles, Machado played a key role in uniting Venezuela’s divided opposition. After the National Electoral Council declared Maduro the winner, she continued her advocacy while in hiding.
Machado characterized her Nobel award as an energizing force for her political movement and expressed that it offers hope to the Venezuelan people. She claimed that the international community’s involvement is crucial in combating the Maduro regime, which she labeled a “criminal structure” reliant on illicit activities. Recent U.S. military actions against suspected drug trafficking boats off the Venezuelan coast have stirred controversy, with allegations of international law violations and political implications.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5y8y25l250o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss