US President Donald Trump has defended his decision to accept a Nobel Peace Prize medal offered by María Corina Machado, the Venezuelan opposition leader who won the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. The gesture has sparked both praise and controversy globally, with Trump describing it as a “wonderful sign of mutual respect.”
Machado, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in October 2025 for her leadership in Venezuela’s push for democratic reforms, presented her medal to Trump during a private meeting at the White House on January 15. She said the gift was in recognition of what she described as his contributions toward freedom for the Venezuelan people.
In his response on social media, Trump said he was honoured to receive the medal, praising Machado as a “wonderful woman” who has endured much in her fight for democracy. He also cited his record in resolving global conflicts, suggesting that his involvement in ending what he referred to as “eight wars” made him deserving of such recognition. Trump framed the medal acceptance as a symbol of appreciation for his international efforts.
President Donald Trump said Friday he accepted Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado's Nobel Peace Prize medal because "she offered it to me." The president claims to have ended eight wars and said Machado told him that no one deserved the prize more than him. pic.twitter.com/ccutjkJU77
— The Associated Press (@AP) January 16, 2026
However, Nobel authorities have been quick to clarify the situation. The Norwegian Nobel Committee has emphasised that while a Nobel Peace Prize medal can be physically given to someone else, the official title and honour remain permanently tied to the original recipient — in this case, Machado. According to Nobel rules, the prize cannot be revoked, shared or transferred once awarded.
This development has drawn mixed reactions internationally. Some political commentators see Trump’s acceptance of the medal as a powerful diplomatic moment and a bridge between US policy and Venezuelan democratic aspirations, while critics argue it undermines the prestige of the Nobel Peace Prize.
The episode comes against the backdrop of heightened political tensions in Venezuela, where US involvement earlier this month led to the overthrow and arrest of former President Nicolás Maduro. Machado’s gesture is being interpreted by her supporters as a symbol of gratitude on behalf of Venezuelans who seek democratic change.
