Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace laureate María Corina Machado has returned home after more than 10 months in exile.&nbsp;“I am here. With you,” Machado wrote on X on Sunday.Her ally and former presidential candidate Edmundo González Urrutia confirmed the news minutes later. “I am thrilled to announce to you that our leader, my dear María Corina, is on Venezuelan soil,” he posted.Machado had repeatedly vowed to return home and hinted that she would run for president again if an election were held.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Estoy aquí. Con ustedes&mdash; María Corina Machado (@MariaCorinaYA) <a href="https://x.com/MariaCorinaYA/status/2114379262878728671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2026</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;&nbsp;Machado had left Venezuela to accept the Nobel Peace Prize in Norway and had not returned since. A month later, the US seized her opponent, President Nicolás Maduro, in a swift military operation.After taking away Maduro, the Trump administration then backed his deputy, Delcy Rodríguez, as leader, and she was sworn in as interim president. Rodríguez later signed an oil deal with the United States.&nbsp;<h2>Machado had left Venezuela for Norway in December</h2>&nbsp;Machado had left Venezuela for Norway in December to accept the Nobel Peace Prize, which she was awarded for promoting democratic rights in her country.The US has been working with the acting Venezuelan government to steer the country toward a democratic transition and political reconciliation, but has excluded Machado and her ally Urrutia.&nbsp;A key member of Machado’s inner circle, Omar González, returned to Venezuela in late August after almost three years in exile, in what he called a “prelude” to her own arrival.Machado’s advisers said she had attempted to re-enter Venezuela seven times over the past few months without success.&nbsp;Trump called Machado a “very nice woman,” but claimed she “does not have the support or the respect within the country” to be leader.&nbsp;Rodríguez has met just about every demand from the Trump administration, including releasing hundreds of political prisoners and making it easier for US companies to invest in the country.&nbsp;Rodríguez vowed at the UN General Assembly that Venezuela would hold new elections and transition to a full democracy, but has yet to announce when a vote will take place.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado had left Venezuela for Norway in December to accept the Nobel Peace Prize, which she was awarded for promoting democratic rights in her country. A month later, the US seized her opponent, President Nicolás Maduro, in a military operation.

Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace laureate María Corina Machado has returned home after more than 10 months in exile. “I am here. With you,” Machado wrote on X on Sunday. Her ally and former presidential candidate Edmundo González Urrutia confirmed the news minutes later. “I am thrilled to announce to you that our leader, my dear María Corina, is on Venezuelan soil,” he posted. Machado had repeatedly vowed to return home and hinted that she would run for president again if an election were held.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado had left Venezuela for Norway in December to accept the Nobel Peace Prize, which she was awarded for promoting democratic rights in her country. A month later, the US seized her opponent, President Nicolás Maduro, in a military operation.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Machado returns home after over 10 months in exile

Venezuela's opposition coalition on Sunday confirmed exiled Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado as its leader, increasing pressure on the country's interim authorities to allow her to return home.&nbsp;The decision comes as a faction of the opposition engages in talks with the interim government on a political transition following the US military's capture of former president Nicolas Maduro in January.&nbsp;Members of the opposition's Unitary Democratic Platform (PUD) agreed to "recognize and support the leadership of Maria Corina Machado", according to a final document presented at the conclusion of a meeting in Caracas. Machado is currently living in Panama.<h3>Opposition calls for free elections, release of political prisoners</h3>At the meeting, the alliance presented 14 proposals aimed at restoring democracy in Venezuela, including a roadmap for holding general elections. However, it did not announce a date for the vote.The coalition called for the unconditional release of all political prisoners, an end to political repression and the right of exiles to return home.&nbsp;It also demanded full freedom for political parties, the removal of restrictions on candidates contesting elections and an end to administrative proceedings targeting political organisations. The proposals included measures to protect human rights and ensure a peaceful transition to democracy through free and competitive elections.&nbsp;Machado's party, Vente Venezuela, is pushing for elections to be held next year and wants the authorities to announce a date.&nbsp;Maduro was captured by US forces in January and taken to New York to face trial. His deputy, Delcy Rodriguez, assumed power and is now leading the interim government under pressure from Washington.<h3>Machado gave Nobel medal to Trump</h3>Machado has also sought support from US President Donald Trump. During a meeting at the White House in January 2026, she presented Trump with the physical gold medal associated with her Nobel Peace Prize, describing the gesture as recognition of his administration's pressure on Venezuela's leadership. The Nobel distinction itself remains awarded to Machado.&nbsp;Machado has been living in exile since leaving Venezuela in 2025 to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. According to her party, she has made at least seven attempts to return but has been prevented from doing so by Venezuelan authorities.&nbsp;The opposition coalition's decision comes as the interim government and a faction of the opposition hold their third round of US-backed talks in Caracas. Machado has not been invited to participate in the negotiations, although she has said she will not obstruct the process.&nbsp;The latest agreement highlights divisions within Venezuela's opposition over the country's political transition, with Machado's camp pressing for elections while another faction continues negotiations with the interim authorities.

Venezuela's opposition coalition has reaffirmed Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado as its leader and called for democratic reforms and free elections as US-backed talks continue with the interim government.

Venezuela's opposition coalition on Sunday confirmed exiled Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado as its leader, increasing pressure on the country's interim authorities to allow her to return home. The decision comes as a faction of the opposition engages in talks with the interim government on a political transition following the US military's capture of former president Nicolas Maduro in January. Members of the opposition's Unitary Democratic Platform (PUD) agreed to "recognize and support the leadership of Maria Corina Machado", according to a final document presented at the conclusion of a meeting in Caracas. Machado is currently living in Panama. Opposition calls for free elections, release of political prisoners At the meeting, the alliance presented 14 proposals aimed at restoring democracy in Venezuela, including a roadmap for holding general elections. However, it did not announce a date for the vote. The coalition called for the unconditional release of all political prisoners, an end to political repression and the right of exiles to return home. It also demanded full freedom for political parties, the removal of restrictions on candidates contesting elections and an end to administrative proceedings targeting political organisations. The proposals included measures to protect human rights and ensure a peaceful transition to democracy through free and competitive elections. Machado's party, Vente Venezuela, is pushing for elections to be held next year and wants the authorities to announce a date. Maduro was captured by US forces in January and taken to New York to face trial. His deputy, Delcy Rodriguez, assumed power and is now leading the interim government under pressure from Washington. Machado gave Nobel medal to Trump Machado has also sought support from US President Donald Trump. During a meeting at the White House in January 2026, she presented Trump with the physical gold medal associated with her Nobel Peace Prize, describing the gesture as recognition of his administration's pressure on Venezuela's leadership. The Nobel distinction itself remains awarded to Machado. Machado has been living in exile since leaving Venezuela in 2025 to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. According to her party, she has made at least seven attempts to return but has been prevented from doing so by Venezuelan authorities. The opposition coalition's decision comes as the interim government and a faction of the opposition hold their third round of US-backed talks in Caracas. Machado has not been invited to participate in the negotiations, although she has said she will not obstruct the process. The latest agreement highlights divisions within Venezuela's opposition over the country's political transition, with Machado's camp pressing for elections while another faction continues negotiations with the interim authorities.

Venezuela's opposition coalition has reaffirmed Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado as its leader and called for democratic reforms and free elections as US-backed talks continue with the interim government.

Nobel laureate Machado, who dedicated prize to Trump, confirmed as Venezuela opposition leader

Venezuela’s opposition leader María Corina Machado has questioned the country’s interim government for signing an oil deal with the US, saying the country’s natural resources do not belong to “an illegitimate regime”. Machado said the country’s people were feeling “sadness, anger and unease” at a new energy agreement&nbsp;Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize winner living in exile, walked a diplomatic tightrope between being critical of the agreement and trying not to rile the White House as she broke her silence over the pact under which the Pentagon will take a 35 per cent stake in a Venezuelan oil company.&nbsp;She also said the US was the “key partner” that Venezuela needed to develop its oil industry and that this view was supported by a majority of people in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ganga-nears-danger-mark-in-varanasi-most-ghats-submerged-pm-modi-orders-relief-work-on-war-footing-1788455040726">Ganga nears danger mark in Varanasi, most ghats submerged; PM Modi orders relief work on ‘war footing’</a>&nbsp;In a video posted on social media, Machado said, “Of course the United States is the principal partner Venezuela needs to fully develop its strategic potential. This is what the majority of Venezuelans believe … and it is something I’ve spent my whole life defending.”&nbsp;However, the current occupants of the Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas did not have the right or the democratic mandate to negotiate Venezuela’s natural resources, she said. “The wealth of our subsoil does not belong to an illegitimate regime—it belongs to the Venezuelan people,” she said, adding that supporters felt “sadness and anger” at being excluded from the decision-making process.&nbsp;Venezuela has the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves, with an estimated 303 billion barrels, of which more than 65 billion barrels are involved in the agreement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-ready-to-help-end-russia-ukraine-war-says-eam-jaishankar-during-kyiv-visit-1788437687980">India ready to help end Russia-Ukraine war, says EAM Jaishankar during Kyiv visit</a>&nbsp;Trump’s deal was struck with the un-elected interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, who took power in January after her predecessor, Nicolás Maduro, was abducted by US special forces.&nbsp;Many expected Trump would replace Maduro with Machado, a conservative democracy activist who later gave her Nobel prize award to the US president. But Trump backed Rodríguez, while sidelining Machado.The White House claims the oil deal will help secure US “energy dominance for the next century” as well as “purging foreign malign influence from our back yard” by excluding China and Russia.&nbsp;Speaking outside the Miraflores palace on Wednesday, the US energy secretary, Chris Wright, said the aim was “to massively grow production and economic opportunities in Venezuela,” adding, “President Trump has a clear mission in Venezuela. The mission is to bring peace, freedom, opportunity, and prosperity to everyone in Venezuela.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bar-council-has-no-power-to-discipline-law-students-before-enrollment-supreme-court-1788442808743">Bar Council has no power to discipline law students before enrollment: Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;However, Machado’s supporters fear the deal makes Washington far less inclined to push for fresh presidential elections.&nbsp;On Wednesday, Trump and Rodríguez brushed off questions on when an election could be held. “You had a very powerful, very nasty dictatorship in Venezuela – and they’re just not going to be ready for it yet,” Trump told reporters, before adding, “But soon.”&nbsp;Rodríguez said, “There will be an electoral process, but when Venezuela is ready. I don’t set dates.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Machado had supported the US military’s January raid that captured former president Nicolás Maduro, who now awaits trial in the US on drug-trafficking charges.&nbsp;

Venezuela has the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves, with an estimated 303 billion barrels, of which more than 65 billion barrels are involved in the agreement. However, Machado’s supporters fear the deal makes Washington far less inclined to push for fresh presidential elections.

Venezuela’s opposition leader María Corina Machado has questioned the country’s interim government for signing an oil deal with the US, saying the country’s natural resources do not belong to “an illegitimate regime”. Machado said the country’s people were feeling “sadness, anger and unease” at a new energy agreement Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize winner living in exile, walked a diplomatic tightrope between being critical of the agreement and trying not to rile the White House as she broke her silence over the pact under which the Pentagon will take a 35 per cent stake in a Venezuelan oil company. She also said the US was the “key partner” that Venezuela needed to develop its oil industry and that this view was supported by a majority of people in the country. Also Read: Ganga nears danger mark in Varanasi, most ghats submerged; PM Modi orders relief work on ‘war footing’ In a video posted on social media, Machado said, “Of course the United States is the principal partner Venezuela needs to fully develop its strategic potential. This is what the majority of Venezuelans believe … and it is something I’ve spent my whole life defending.” However, the current occupants of the Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas did not have the right or the democratic mandate to negotiate Venezuela’s natural resources, she said. “The wealth of our subsoil does not belong to an illegitimate regime—it belongs to the Venezuelan people,” she said, adding that supporters felt “sadness and anger” at being excluded from the decision-making process. Venezuela has the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves, with an estimated 303 billion barrels, of which more than 65 billion barrels are involved in the agreement. Also Read: India ready to help end Russia-Ukraine war, says EAM Jaishankar during Kyiv visit Trump’s deal was struck with the un-elected interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, who took power in January after her predecessor, Nicolás Maduro, was abducted by US special forces. Many expected Trump would replace Maduro with Machado, a conservative democracy activist who later gave her Nobel prize award to the US president. But Trump backed Rodríguez, while sidelining Machado. The White House claims the oil deal will help secure US “energy dominance for the next century” as well as “purging foreign malign influence from our back yard” by excluding China and Russia. Speaking outside the Miraflores palace on Wednesday, the US energy secretary, Chris Wright, said the aim was “to massively grow production and economic opportunities in Venezuela,” adding, “President Trump has a clear mission in Venezuela. The mission is to bring peace, freedom, opportunity, and prosperity to everyone in Venezuela.” Also Read: Bar Council has no power to discipline law students before enrollment: Supreme Court However, Machado’s supporters fear the deal makes Washington far less inclined to push for fresh presidential elections. On Wednesday, Trump and Rodríguez brushed off questions on when an election could be held. “You had a very powerful, very nasty dictatorship in Venezuela – and they’re just not going to be ready for it yet,” Trump told reporters, before adding, “But soon.” Rodríguez said, “There will be an electoral process, but when Venezuela is ready. I don’t set dates.” Machado had supported the US military’s January raid that captured former president Nicolás Maduro, who now awaits trial in the US on drug-trafficking charges.

Venezuela has the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves, with an estimated 303 billion barrels, of which more than 65 billion barrels are involved in the agreement. However, Machado’s supporters fear the deal makes Washington far less inclined to push for fresh presidential elections.

Nobel laureate Machado says Venezuela’s ‘illegitimate’ regime has no right to strike US oil deal

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado is demanding that fresh presidential elections be held "as soon as possible" following the removal of Nicolas Maduro from power, asserting that a "permanent vacancy" exists in the country's leadership. 


Venezuela's Opposition Leader Demands Fresh Presidential Elections

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, whose party won the 2024 election, has said that a political transition away from the remnants of the Maduro regime is ‘unstoppable’. She further said that the positive changes made by the interim government under pressure from the Trump administration may not hold legal weight. In ‘Face the Nation’ interview, Nobel Peace Prize winner Machado said the US military operation to capture former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro “sent a clear message” to the members of his regime who still run the South American country, “and they’re starting to realise that things have changed for good.”&nbsp;“So eventually, they might understand, and even very soon, that it is in their best interest to accept that transition is unstoppable,” Machado told CBS.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rafah-border-crossing-opens-for-trial-limited-passage-of-palestinians-to-start-from-monday-1769963807276">Rafah border crossing opens for trial; ‘limited passage’ of Palestinians to start from Monday</a>&nbsp;Rather than ousting the remnants of Maduro’s regime, the Trump administration is working with them and using hefty restrictions on Venezuelan oil exports.&nbsp;While the Trump administration is working with the Rodriguez government, the US has not diplomatically or legally recognised their legitimacy. On Saturday, American diplomat Laura Dogu arrived in Caracas to work as Charge d’Affaires of the Venezuelan Affairs Unit. She carries the title of Ambassador due to previous roles in Honduras and Nicaragua.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘We don't want socialism. We don't want the state owning every single facility’</h2>&nbsp;“Actually, everything that Delcy Rodriguez is currently doing is because she’s complying with instructions she’s getting from the United States,” Machado said.“So I think that the message has been delivered, and so far, we’re seeing the results in the actions taken by the regime, and also in the mood and energy that is growing within the Venezuelan population.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-next-round-of-trilateral-peace-talks-on-feb-4-5-in-abu-dhabi-says-zelensky-1769957273930">‘Next round of trilateral peace talks on Feb 4-5 in Abu Dhabi,’ says Zelensky</a>&nbsp;“We don't want socialism. We don't want the state owning every single facility or production centre. We want private property,” Machado said. “But that requires rule of law [and] long-term guarantees for foreign investment, for local investment.”&nbsp;<h2>‘Without free and fair elections, existing govt remains illegitimate power’</h2>&nbsp;Machado argued that without free and fair elections, the existing government remains an “illegitimate power” and whatever comes from it has “no legality”.&nbsp;Machado said that securing political transition would give refugees and political exiles vital confidence to return to Venezuela as they fear persecution and instability.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2026-allocates-funds-for-both-mgnrega-and-vb-g-ram-g-schemes-what-does-this-mean-1769949026794">Union Budget 2026 allocates funds for both MGNREGA and VB-G RAM G schemes. What does this mean?</a>&nbsp;The Nobel Peace Prize winner said dismantling the Maduro regime will likely be a “very complex process”, calling it a “criminal structure” with links to US adversaries like Cuba, Iran and China.&nbsp;“I will be president when the time comes,’ said Machado, who was banned by Maduro from running against him in the 2024 election.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said dismantling the Maduro regime will likely be a “very complex process”, calling it a “criminal structure” with links to US adversaries like Cuba, Iran, and China. The existing government is illegitimate, she added.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, whose party won the 2024 election, has said that a political transition away from the remnants of the Maduro regime is ‘unstoppable’. She further said that the positive changes made by the interim government under pressure from the Trump administration may not hold legal weight. In ‘Face the Nation’ interview, Nobel Peace Prize winner Machado said the US military operation to capture former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro “sent a clear message” to the members of his regime who still run the South American country, “and they’re starting to realise that things have changed for good.” “So eventually, they might understand, and even very soon, that it is in their best interest to accept that transition is unstoppable,” Machado told CBS. Also Read: Rafah border crossing opens for trial; ‘limited passage’ of Palestinians to start from Monday Rather than ousting the remnants of Maduro’s regime, the Trump administration is working with them and using hefty restrictions on Venezuelan oil exports. While the Trump administration is working with the Rodriguez government, the US has not diplomatically or legally recognised their legitimacy. On Saturday, American diplomat Laura Dogu arrived in Caracas to work as Charge d’Affaires of the Venezuelan Affairs Unit. She carries the title of Ambassador due to previous roles in Honduras and Nicaragua. ‘We don't want socialism. We don't want the state owning every single facility’ “Actually, everything that Delcy Rodriguez is currently doing is because she’s complying with instructions she’s getting from the United States,” Machado said. “So I think that the message has been delivered, and so far, we’re seeing the results in the actions taken by the regime, and also in the mood and energy that is growing within the Venezuelan population.” Also Read: ‘Next round of trilateral peace talks on Feb 4-5 in Abu Dhabi,’ says Zelensky “We don't want socialism. We don't want the state owning every single facility or production centre. We want private property,” Machado said. “But that requires rule of law [and] long-term guarantees for foreign investment, for local investment.” ‘Without free and fair elections, existing govt remains illegitimate power’ Machado argued that without free and fair elections, the existing government remains an “illegitimate power” and whatever comes from it has “no legality”. Machado said that securing political transition would give refugees and political exiles vital confidence to return to Venezuela as they fear persecution and instability. Also Read: Union Budget 2026 allocates funds for both MGNREGA and VB-G RAM G schemes. What does this mean? The Nobel Peace Prize winner said dismantling the Maduro regime will likely be a “very complex process”, calling it a “criminal structure” with links to US adversaries like Cuba, Iran and China. “I will be president when the time comes,’ said Machado, who was banned by Maduro from running against him in the 2024 election.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said dismantling the Maduro regime will likely be a “very complex process”, calling it a “criminal structure” with links to US adversaries like Cuba, Iran, and China. The existing government is illegitimate, she added.

‘Political transition from Maduro regime remnants unstoppable’: Maria Machado

US President Donald Trump was asked by a reporter why his administration would work with Delcy Rodriguez, the interim leader of Venezuela. While explaining his alignment with the remnants of Nicolas Maduro, Trump admitted that he didn't want Venezuela to be the next Iraq. Trump previously, in 2016, blamed Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton for the instability in the Middle East and accused them of being the “founders of ISIS”.A reporter confronted Donald Trump on Friday afternoon, asking why he would want the Nobel Prize of someone else? Trump explained that because she had offered it to him. “And I thought that was a very nice gesture. And by the way, I think she’s a very fine woman, and we’ll be talking again.” The reporter asked if she was a nice person, then why was he backing Delcy Rodriguez to be the Venezuelan President? Trump then elaborated on how US strategic mistakes in Iraq led to the creation of ISIS, and he did not want Venezuela to be the next Iraq.&nbsp;Also Read: '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mar-a-lago-dystopian-furry-gala-elite-decadence-1768555729893">Dystopian' and furry-themed gala hosted in Trump's Mar-a-Lago, sparks ridicule</a>“Well, if you ever remember a place called Iraq, where everybody was fired, every single person, the police, the generals, everybody was fired, and they ended up being ISIS. Instead of just getting down to business, they ended up being ISIS, so I remember that,” said Trump.Mainstream media analysts point out that the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, the removal of Saddam Hussein, and the decision to dissolve the existing Sunni military created a power vacuum. Further torture and humiliation in existing prison facilities like Camp Bucca resulted in psychological trauma and dissociative personality disorder, which resulted in the fostering of the extremist ideology ISIS. However, mainstream scholars disagree with Trump's claims that the US directly founded ISIS.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

President Trump says US support for interim leader Delcy Rodríguez aims to prevent Venezuela from becoming “another Iraq,” citing mistakes that helped ISIS grow

US President Donald Trump was asked by a reporter why his administration would work with Delcy Rodriguez, the interim leader of Venezuela. While explaining his alignment with the remnants of Nicolas Maduro, Trump admitted that he didn't want Venezuela to be the next Iraq. Trump previously, in 2016, blamed Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton for the instability in the Middle East and accused them of being the “founders of ISIS”. A reporter confronted Donald Trump on Friday afternoon, asking why he would want the Nobel Prize of someone else? Trump explained that because she had offered it to him. “And I thought that was a very nice gesture. And by the way, I think she’s a very fine woman, and we’ll be talking again.” The reporter asked if she was a nice person, then why was he backing Delcy Rodriguez to be the Venezuelan President? Trump then elaborated on how US strategic mistakes in Iraq led to the creation of ISIS, and he did not want Venezuela to be the next Iraq. Also Read: 'Dystopian' and furry-themed gala hosted in Trump's Mar-a-Lago, sparks ridicule “Well, if you ever remember a place called Iraq, where everybody was fired, every single person, the police, the generals, everybody was fired, and they ended up being ISIS. Instead of just getting down to business, they ended up being ISIS, so I remember that,” said Trump. Mainstream media analysts point out that the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, the removal of Saddam Hussein, and the decision to dissolve the existing Sunni military created a power vacuum. Further torture and humiliation in existing prison facilities like Camp Bucca resulted in psychological trauma and dissociative personality disorder, which resulted in the fostering of the extremist ideology ISIS. However, mainstream scholars disagree with Trump's claims that the US directly founded ISIS.

President Trump says US support for interim leader Delcy Rodríguez aims to prevent Venezuela from becoming “another Iraq,” citing mistakes that helped ISIS grow

Trump again claims US created ISIS to explain backing for Delcy Rodriguez

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on Thursday (Jan 15) presented US President Donald Trump with her Nobel Peace medal at the White House as she tries to win over the POTUS, who has been sidelined since ousting Nicolas Maduro. Following the gesture, the Nobel Committee has broken its silence, saying that the Peace Prize is inseparable from the person who won it, downplaying Trump getting the medal. The US president sought the world’s most prestigious peace prize since he came to the office in January last year, claiming he has ended several wars around the world.In a statement, the Oslo-based committee said, “Regardless of what may happen to the medal, the diploma, or the prize money, it is and remains the original laureate who is recorded in history as the recipient of the prize.”It further added, “Even if the medal or diploma later comes into someone else’s possession, this does not alter who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.” The Nobel Committee also said that it would not comment “on Peace Prize laureates or the political processes that they are engaged in.”The committee added that there were no restrictions on what the laureates did with the medal, diploma and money they received as part of the Nobel Prize, listing several laureates who sold or gave away their medals.Trump had sought last year’s Nobel Peace Prize, claiming he had stopped eight wars, including conflict between Israel and Hamas, Israel and Iran, India and Pakistan, Thailand and Cambodia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, Egypt and Ethiopia, Serbia and Kosovo, and Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the prize went to Machado, who escaped from Venezuela by boat to collect her award in Oslo last month.According to the award citation, Machado won hers for “her tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.”

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Donald Trump at the White House, but the Nobel Committee said the prize remains inseparable from the original laureate, regardless of who holds the medal.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on Thursday (Jan 15) presented US President Donald Trump with her Nobel Peace medal at the White House as she tries to win over the POTUS, who has been sidelined since ousting Nicolas Maduro. Following the gesture, the Nobel Committee has broken its silence, saying that the Peace Prize is inseparable from the person who won it, downplaying Trump getting the medal. The US president sought the world’s most prestigious peace prize since he came to the office in January last year, claiming he has ended several wars around the world. In a statement, the Oslo-based committee said, “Regardless of what may happen to the medal, the diploma, or the prize money, it is and remains the original laureate who is recorded in history as the recipient of the prize.” It further added, “Even if the medal or diploma later comes into someone else’s possession, this does not alter who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.” The Nobel Committee also said that it would not comment “on Peace Prize laureates or the political processes that they are engaged in.” The committee added that there were no restrictions on what the laureates did with the medal, diploma and money they received as part of the Nobel Prize, listing several laureates who sold or gave away their medals. Trump had sought last year’s Nobel Peace Prize, claiming he had stopped eight wars, including conflict between Israel and Hamas, Israel and Iran, India and Pakistan, Thailand and Cambodia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, Egypt and Ethiopia, Serbia and Kosovo, and Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the prize went to Machado, who escaped from Venezuela by boat to collect her award in Oslo last month. According to the award citation, Machado won hers for “her tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.”

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Donald Trump at the White House, but the Nobel Committee said the prize remains inseparable from the original laureate, regardless of who holds the medal.

‘If medal comes into someone else’s possession…’: Nobel Committee breaks silence after Machado ‘presents’ her medal to Trump

Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said on Friday (January 16) that Venezuela would be freed with backing from Washington and US President Donald Trump, who ordered a raid to capture the country’s authoritarian leader, Nicolas Maduro. "I want to assure the Venezuelan people that Venezuela is going to be free, and that's going to be achieved with the support of the people of the United States and the president, Donald Trump," Machado was quoted as saying during an event in Washington.&nbsp;Machado also said that the country has started a “genuine transition to democracy”. Machado said Venezuela is entering the early stages of democratic change, a shift she said will profoundly affect Venezuelans and have far-reaching consequences for the region and the world. "The result of a stable transition will be a proud Venezuela that will be the best ally the US has ever had in the Americas," she said. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-slap-tariffs-on-nations-opposing-his-greenland-takeover-plan-1768581081251">Trump threatens to slap tariffs on nations opposing his Greenland takeover plan</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Machado said she is still committed to seeking the presidency, despite Washington moving forward without her after Nicolás Maduro’s removal. In an interview on Fox &amp; Friends following meetings in the US capital, Machado said she believes her opportunity has not passed, arguing that she retains the popular mandate to lead Venezuela and would become the country’s first woman president.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maharani-kamasundari-the-queen-who-gave-away-600-kg-of-gold-1768584042838/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/maharani-kamasundari-the-queen-who-gave-away-600-kg-of-gold-1768584042838/embed</a>&nbsp;Her remarks follow US President Donald Trump’s decision to recognize Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro’s former vice president, as interim leader after a US military operation on January 3 led to Maduro’s capture. Trump has said Machado does not have enough support inside Venezuela and has backed Rodríguez instead, pointing to cooperation on US access to Venezuelan oil. Machado’s movement continues to claim that the 2024 election was rigged by Maduro, an assertion supported by the United States and several international allies.

'Venezuela is going to be free with support from Trump': Maria Corina Machado

Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said on Friday (January 16) that Venezuela would be freed with backing from Washington and US President Donald Trump, who ordered a raid to capture the country’s authoritarian leader, Nicolas Maduro. "I want to assure the Venezuelan people that Venezuela is going to be free, and that's going to be achieved with the support of the people of the United States and the president, Donald Trump," Machado was quoted as saying during an event in Washington. Machado also said that the country has started a “genuine transition to democracy”. Machado said Venezuela is entering the early stages of democratic change, a shift she said will profoundly affect Venezuelans and have far-reaching consequences for the region and the world. "The result of a stable transition will be a proud Venezuela that will be the best ally the US has ever had in the Americas," she said. Also Read: Trump threatens to slap tariffs on nations opposing his Greenland takeover plan Earlier, Machado said she is still committed to seeking the presidency, despite Washington moving forward without her after Nicolás Maduro’s removal. In an interview on Fox & Friends following meetings in the US capital, Machado said she believes her opportunity has not passed, arguing that she retains the popular mandate to lead Venezuela and would become the country’s first woman president. https://www.wionews.com/videos/maharani-kamasundari-the-queen-who-gave-away-600-kg-of-gold-1768584042838/embed Her remarks follow US President Donald Trump’s decision to recognize Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro’s former vice president, as interim leader after a US military operation on January 3 led to Maduro’s capture. Trump has said Machado does not have enough support inside Venezuela and has backed Rodríguez instead, pointing to cooperation on US access to Venezuelan oil. Machado’s movement continues to claim that the 2024 election was rigged by Maduro, an assertion supported by the United States and several international allies.

Venezuela opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said backing from the US and Donald Trump will help free Venezuela as it begins a transition to democracy

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado says she remains determined to become her country’s president, even as Washington has moved ahead without her following the removal of Nicolas Maduro. Speaking on Fox &amp; Friends after meetings in Washington, Machado said she believes her moment will come, insisting she still holds a popular mandate to lead Venezuela and would become its first female president.&nbsp;Her comments come after President Donald Trump recognised Delcy Rodriguez, Maduro’s former vice president, as interim leader following a US military operation on January 3 that resulted in Maduro’s arrest. Trump has argued that Machado lacks sufficient domestic backing and has instead supported Rodríguez, citing cooperation over US access to Venezuela’s oil resources. Machado’s political movement maintains that Maduro rigged the 2024 election, an allegation backed by the United States and several international partners.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-10-indians-arrested-in-iran-mea-seeks-consular-access-engages-in-talk-with-us-to-extend-sanctions-waiver-for-chabahar-port-operations-1768571481678">'10 Indians arrested in Iran': MEA seeks consular access; engages in talks with US to extend sanctions waiver for Chabahar Port operations</a>&nbsp;“I will serve Venezuela wherever I am most effective,” Machado said, adding that the electoral mandate she claims has not disappeared. In a dramatic gesture aimed at influencing Trump, Machado presented him with her Nobel Peace Prize medal during a White House lunch on Thursday, calling the moment deeply emotional and saying the honor belonged to the Venezuelan people. The Nobel Committee has previously stated that prizes cannot be transferred, and it remains unclear whether Trump kept the medal.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-mediates-iran-israel-as-u-s-carrier-heads-west-1768572384529/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-mediates-iran-israel-as-u-s-carrier-heads-west-1768572384529/embed</a>&nbsp;Trump had actively sought the Nobel Peace Prize last year, arguing his diplomacy helped end multiple global conflicts. The award instead went to Machado, who traveled to Oslo to accept it after fleeing Venezuela by boat. Meanwhile, Trump and Rodríguez held their first phone call this week, with the White House signaling approval of her early actions. Rodríguez, however, struck a defiant tone, saying her government would engage Washington diplomatically but would not be intimidated.&nbsp;Rodriguez delivered Venezuela’s annual address to parliament as Maduro remains jailed in New York on drug trafficking charges. At the same time, Machado was met by cheering supporters in Washington. According to The New York Times, CIA Director John Ratcliffe met with Rodríguez on Thursday, reinforcing signs that the US sees her as a temporary governing partner.

'When the right time comes': Maria Corina Machado vows to be future Venezuela president

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado says she remains determined to become her country’s president, even as Washington has moved ahead without her following the removal of Nicolas Maduro. Speaking on Fox & Friends after meetings in Washington, Machado said she believes her moment will come, insisting she still holds a popular mandate to lead Venezuela and would become its first female president. Her comments come after President Donald Trump recognised Delcy Rodriguez, Maduro’s former vice president, as interim leader following a US military operation on January 3 that resulted in Maduro’s arrest. Trump has argued that Machado lacks sufficient domestic backing and has instead supported Rodríguez, citing cooperation over US access to Venezuela’s oil resources. Machado’s political movement maintains that Maduro rigged the 2024 election, an allegation backed by the United States and several international partners. Also Read: '10 Indians arrested in Iran': MEA seeks consular access; engages in talks with US to extend sanctions waiver for Chabahar Port operations “I will serve Venezuela wherever I am most effective,” Machado said, adding that the electoral mandate she claims has not disappeared. In a dramatic gesture aimed at influencing Trump, Machado presented him with her Nobel Peace Prize medal during a White House lunch on Thursday, calling the moment deeply emotional and saying the honor belonged to the Venezuelan people. The Nobel Committee has previously stated that prizes cannot be transferred, and it remains unclear whether Trump kept the medal. https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-mediates-iran-israel-as-u-s-carrier-heads-west-1768572384529/embed Trump had actively sought the Nobel Peace Prize last year, arguing his diplomacy helped end multiple global conflicts. The award instead went to Machado, who traveled to Oslo to accept it after fleeing Venezuela by boat. Meanwhile, Trump and Rodríguez held their first phone call this week, with the White House signaling approval of her early actions. Rodríguez, however, struck a defiant tone, saying her government would engage Washington diplomatically but would not be intimidated. Rodriguez delivered Venezuela’s annual address to parliament as Maduro remains jailed in New York on drug trafficking charges. At the same time, Machado was met by cheering supporters in Washington. According to The New York Times, CIA Director John Ratcliffe met with Rodríguez on Thursday, reinforcing signs that the US sees her as a temporary governing partner.

María Corina Machado insists she will lead Venezuela one day, even as the United States backs Delcy Rodriguez after Nicolas Maduro’s ouster

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 15) heaped praise on Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who presented him "with her Nobel Peace or the work I have done," as the two met at the White House. Machado's Nobel gesture comes as the Venezuelan opposition leader tries to win over the POTUS, who had sidelined her since overthrowing Nicolas Maduro.<h2>'A wonderful gesture'</h2>Following the meeting, Trump on his Truth Social called Machado a "wonderful woman who has been through so much" and said that presenting him with the medal was "such a wonderful gesture of mutual respect." The gesture follows months of Trump insisting that he should have gotten the coveted prize for stopping wars.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-trolls-allies-and-rivals-alike-with-donroe-doctrine-cartoon-after-maduro-capture-1767691813384">Trump trolls allies and rivals alike with 'Donroe Doctrine' cartoon after Maduro capture</a> Talking to Fox News after meeting Trump, Machado said, "He deserves it," and described it as a "very emotional moment". She added that it was "recognition for his unique commitment with our freedom."It was not immediately clear if Trump kept the award after the closed-door meeting. According to the Norwegian Nobel Committee's rules, nobel prize cannot be transferred.<h2>Machado tries to win Trump's favour</h2>Since the Jan 3 military operation in which US troops captured Nicolas Maduro, Trump has refused to back Machado, and the Venezuelan opposition leader's gesture is being seen as a way to win him back.However, Trump says that Machado does not have enough support among Venezuelans and has instead opted to stick with former Maduro loyalist, current Venezuela interim President Delcy Rodriguez. However, he has been clear that the support exists so long as she toes Washington's line, particularly on access to Venezuela's vast oil reserves.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-swears-in-delcy-rodriguez-as-acting-president-days-after-maduro-abduction-1767674124349">Who is Delcy Rodriguez? Maduro's second-in-command sworn in as Venezuela's acting president</a><h2>Trump-Rodriguez call</h2>Recently, on Wednesday (Jan 14) Trump and Rodriguez had their first call since Maduro's capture. Following the call, White House on Thursday (Jan 15) said that the POTUS "likes what he's seeing" with Venezuela's interim leaders. Rodriguez, meanwhile, said that her government was "not afraid" of a diplomatic clash with Washington. "We know they are very powerful. We know they are a lethal nuclear power...we are not afraid to confront them diplomatically, through political dialogue," she said.&nbsp;

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado met Donald Trump at the White House and handed him a Nobel Peace Prize medal, calling him deserving for his role in global conflicts. Trump praised the gesture, even as he continues to sideline Machado and back interim leader Delcy Rodriguez.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 15) heaped praise on Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who presented him "with her Nobel Peace or the work I have done," as the two met at the White House. Machado's Nobel gesture comes as the Venezuelan opposition leader tries to win over the POTUS, who had sidelined her since overthrowing Nicolas Maduro. 'A wonderful gesture' Following the meeting, Trump on his Truth Social called Machado a "wonderful woman who has been through so much" and said that presenting him with the medal was "such a wonderful gesture of mutual respect." The gesture follows months of Trump insisting that he should have gotten the coveted prize for stopping wars. Also read | Trump trolls allies and rivals alike with 'Donroe Doctrine' cartoon after Maduro capture Talking to Fox News after meeting Trump, Machado said, "He deserves it," and described it as a "very emotional moment". She added that it was "recognition for his unique commitment with our freedom." It was not immediately clear if Trump kept the award after the closed-door meeting. According to the Norwegian Nobel Committee's rules, nobel prize cannot be transferred. Machado tries to win Trump's favour Since the Jan 3 military operation in which US troops captured Nicolas Maduro, Trump has refused to back Machado, and the Venezuelan opposition leader's gesture is being seen as a way to win him back. However, Trump says that Machado does not have enough support among Venezuelans and has instead opted to stick with former Maduro loyalist, current Venezuela interim President Delcy Rodriguez. However, he has been clear that the support exists so long as she toes Washington's line, particularly on access to Venezuela's vast oil reserves. Also read | Who is Delcy Rodriguez? Maduro's second-in-command sworn in as Venezuela's acting president Trump-Rodriguez call Recently, on Wednesday (Jan 14) Trump and Rodriguez had their first call since Maduro's capture. Following the call, White House on Thursday (Jan 15) said that the POTUS "likes what he's seeing" with Venezuela's interim leaders. Rodriguez, meanwhile, said that her government was "not afraid" of a diplomatic clash with Washington. "We know they are very powerful. We know they are a lethal nuclear power...we are not afraid to confront them diplomatically, through political dialogue," she said.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado met Donald Trump at the White House and handed him a Nobel Peace Prize medal, calling him deserving for his role in global conflicts. Trump praised the gesture, even as he continues to sideline Machado and back interim leader Delcy Rodriguez.

'He deserves it': Machado trying to win over POTUS? FINALLY Trump gets ‘Nobel Peace’ medal

After completing her meeting with President Donald Trump, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado left the White House and briefly greeted a group of supporters gathered near the gate, exchanging hugs as they cheered her arrival. “We can count on President Trump,” Machado told the crowd in Spanish, prompting loud cheers. She did not respond to questions in English about how the meeting went or whether she had given Trump her Nobel Peace Prize, leaving it unclear whether she did not hear the questions or chose not to answer. Machado was seen wearing a white suit as she walked toward a private entrance of the White House.&nbsp;Machado then walked to a waiting SUV, pausing again to hug supporters who called out her name, waved Venezuelan flags, and chanted the country’s name. She responded by saying, “Gracias.” Machado then later headed to the US Capitol, where she met with a bipartisan group of senators in Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin’s office. She was greeted by supporters as she entered the Capitol before moving upstairs for the meeting. The senators in attendance included Republicans Rick Scott, Ted Cruz, Bernie Moreno, and John Curtis, along with Democrats Dick Durbin, Jeanne Shaheen, Peter Welch, Tim Kaine, Ruben Gallego, Alex Padilla, Chris Murphy, and Jacky Rosen. Independent Sen. Angus King, who caucuses with Democrats, is also participating.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-gravely-concerned-g7-countries-condemns-iran-s-crackdown-on-protest-warns-of-new-sanctions-1768498108827">Trump administration imposes new sanctions on Iran's security chief Ali Larijani, senior IRGC officials</a><h2>Five Americans released in Venezuela this week: WH</h2>White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Thursday (January 15) that five Americans were released from detention in Venezuela this week. &nbsp;Leavitt said the release of political prisoners was among several favourable actions taken by the interim government in Venezuela. She also praised Delcy Rodriguez’s cooperation on the sales of oil. “The president likes what he’s seeing and will expect that cooperation to continue,” she was quoted as saying. “We welcome the release of detained Americans in Venezuela,” a State Department spokesperson said Tuesday. “This is an important step in the right direction by the interim authorities.”

‘We can count on President Trump,’ says Maria Corina Machado outside the White House; meets senators on Capitol Hill

After completing her meeting with President Donald Trump, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado left the White House and briefly greeted a group of supporters gathered near the gate, exchanging hugs as they cheered her arrival. “We can count on President Trump,” Machado told the crowd in Spanish, prompting loud cheers. She did not respond to questions in English about how the meeting went or whether she had given Trump her Nobel Peace Prize, leaving it unclear whether she did not hear the questions or chose not to answer. Machado was seen wearing a white suit as she walked toward a private entrance of the White House. Machado then walked to a waiting SUV, pausing again to hug supporters who called out her name, waved Venezuelan flags, and chanted the country’s name. She responded by saying, “Gracias.” Machado then later headed to the US Capitol, where she met with a bipartisan group of senators in Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin’s office. She was greeted by supporters as she entered the Capitol before moving upstairs for the meeting. The senators in attendance included Republicans Rick Scott, Ted Cruz, Bernie Moreno, and John Curtis, along with Democrats Dick Durbin, Jeanne Shaheen, Peter Welch, Tim Kaine, Ruben Gallego, Alex Padilla, Chris Murphy, and Jacky Rosen. Independent Sen. Angus King, who caucuses with Democrats, is also participating. Also Read: Trump administration imposes new sanctions on Iran's security chief Ali Larijani, senior IRGC officials Five Americans released in Venezuela this week: WH White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Thursday (January 15) that five Americans were released from detention in Venezuela this week. Leavitt said the release of political prisoners was among several favourable actions taken by the interim government in Venezuela. She also praised Delcy Rodriguez’s cooperation on the sales of oil. “The president likes what he’s seeing and will expect that cooperation to continue,” she was quoted as saying. “We welcome the release of detained Americans in Venezuela,” a State Department spokesperson said Tuesday. “This is an important step in the right direction by the interim authorities.”

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado met with US President Donald Trump on Thursday (January 15) at the White House

US authorities have seized another tanker linked to Venezuela, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (January 15), citing two officials. The move comes just before a meeting between President Donald Trump and Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. It is the sixth ship recently targeted for transporting Venezuelan oil or having done so previously.&nbsp;Oil exports are crucial to Venezuela’s economy, generating about 95% of its export income, with China standing out as its primary buyer. According to estimates from the research firm Beyond The Horizon, Venezuela has already repaid more than $50 billion in debt through crude oil deliveries, although roughly $12 billion remains outstanding. The withdrawal of vessels follows closely on the heels of a US operation in which American forces intercepted and seized a Russian-flagged tanker, formerly named Bella 1 and later rebranded as Marinera, in international waters. That action heightened diplomatic tensions between Washington and Moscow and highlighted the United States’ strict enforcement of sanctions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-are-in-touch-hope-it-resumes-soon-pakistan-reacts-after-us-state-department-freezes-immigrant-visas-from-75-countries-1768480362086">'We are in touch. Hope it resumes soon': Pakistan reacts after US State Department freezes visa processing from 75 countries</a>&nbsp;Under the embargo, Venezuelan waters are effectively off-limits to sanctioned vessels, halting both incoming and outgoing oil shipments. At the same time, the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control has widened its sanctions regime to target four Chinese firms linked to Venezuela’s energy industry: Corniola Ltd., Aries Global Investment Ltd., Krape Myrtle Co., and Winky International Ltd.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-faces-many-challenges-as-israeli-elections-loom-1768474235350/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-faces-many-challenges-as-israeli-elections-loom-1768474235350/embed</a>&nbsp;Just two days back, on Tuesday (January 13), two Chinese-flagged supertankers en route to Venezuela to load crude under long-standing oil-for-debt agreements suddenly reversed course and are headed back toward Asia, according to shipping data accessed by news agency Reuters. The shift comes after recent US action against a Russian-flagged tanker linked to Venezuela, underscoring increasing pressure on the country’s oil trade.

US seizes sixth Venezuela-linked tanker ahead of Trump's meeting with Maria Corina Machado

US authorities have seized another tanker linked to Venezuela, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (January 15), citing two officials. The move comes just before a meeting between President Donald Trump and Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. It is the sixth ship recently targeted for transporting Venezuelan oil or having done so previously. Oil exports are crucial to Venezuela’s economy, generating about 95% of its export income, with China standing out as its primary buyer. According to estimates from the research firm Beyond The Horizon, Venezuela has already repaid more than $50 billion in debt through crude oil deliveries, although roughly $12 billion remains outstanding. The withdrawal of vessels follows closely on the heels of a US operation in which American forces intercepted and seized a Russian-flagged tanker, formerly named Bella 1 and later rebranded as Marinera, in international waters. That action heightened diplomatic tensions between Washington and Moscow and highlighted the United States’ strict enforcement of sanctions. Also Read: 'We are in touch. Hope it resumes soon': Pakistan reacts after US State Department freezes visa processing from 75 countries Under the embargo, Venezuelan waters are effectively off-limits to sanctioned vessels, halting both incoming and outgoing oil shipments. At the same time, the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control has widened its sanctions regime to target four Chinese firms linked to Venezuela’s energy industry: Corniola Ltd., Aries Global Investment Ltd., Krape Myrtle Co., and Winky International Ltd. https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-faces-many-challenges-as-israeli-elections-loom-1768474235350/embed Just two days back, on Tuesday (January 13), two Chinese-flagged supertankers en route to Venezuela to load crude under long-standing oil-for-debt agreements suddenly reversed course and are headed back toward Asia, according to shipping data accessed by news agency Reuters. The shift comes after recent US action against a Russian-flagged tanker linked to Venezuela, underscoring increasing pressure on the country’s oil trade.

US seizes sixth Venezuela-linked tanker ahead of Trump–Machado meeting, continuing recent actions against ships tied to Venezuelan oil

U.S. President Donald Trump will meet with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on January 15, a White House official said on Monday.


Trump-Machado Meet: Venezuela's Opposition Leader Offers To Share Nobel Peace Prize With Trump

Pope Leo met Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Mario Corina Machado on Monday (Jan 23). Machado sought Pope's support for the democratic transition in Venezuela after the United States captured deposed president Nicolas Maduro in a nighttime raid in Caracas. The Vatican, &nbsp;however, did not provide any further details on the meetings while Machado's name was listed among the pope's appointments for the day.&nbsp;The Nobel laureate urged Pope Leo to "intercede" on behalf of over thousands of political prisoners in her country "I asked him to intercede for all Venezuelans who remain kidnapped and disappeared," Machado said after the meeting, which came just over a week after the US military ouster of long-term authoritarian leader Nicolas Maduro.&nbsp;"With the accompaniment of the Church and the unprecedented pressure from the United States Government, the defeat of evil in the country is closer," she added in a statement posted to X by her team.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-prize-cannot-be-shared-or-transferred-committee-after-machado-s-offer-to-give-her-award-to-trump-1768062840005">Nobel Prize cannot be shared or transferred: Committee after Machado’s offer to give her award to Trump</a>&nbsp;Machado's Vatican visit is part of her broader diplomatic outreach to seek global support for the democratic transition in Venezuela amid political turmoil in the country.&nbsp;On Friday, Pope Leo XIV, the first pope of US origins, criticised the use of military force as a tool to achieve diplomatic goals and called for the protection of human rights in Venezuela. He called for the country to remain independent after the capture of Maduro at the order of US President Trump.&nbsp;Machado, who is due to visit Washington, thanked US President Trump for capturing Nicolas Maduro and offered to share her Nobel Peace Prize with Donald Trump.&nbsp;The Norwegian Nobel Committee, however, stated that a Peace Prize can not be "shared, revoked and transferred once it is awarded to someone. "A Nobel Prize can neither be revoked, shared, nor transferred to others. Once the announcement has been made, the decision stands for all time," the Nobel Committee's statement read.

In a major foreign policy speech on Friday, the Pope criticised the use of military force as a tool to achieve diplomatic objectives and called for the protection of human rights in Venezuela.

Pope Leo met Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Mario Corina Machado on Monday (Jan 23). Machado sought Pope's support for the democratic transition in Venezuela after the United States captured deposed president Nicolas Maduro in a nighttime raid in Caracas. The Vatican, however, did not provide any further details on the meetings while Machado's name was listed among the pope's appointments for the day. The Nobel laureate urged Pope Leo to "intercede" on behalf of over thousands of political prisoners in her country "I asked him to intercede for all Venezuelans who remain kidnapped and disappeared," Machado said after the meeting, which came just over a week after the US military ouster of long-term authoritarian leader Nicolas Maduro. "With the accompaniment of the Church and the unprecedented pressure from the United States Government, the defeat of evil in the country is closer," she added in a statement posted to X by her team. Also Read: Nobel Prize cannot be shared or transferred: Committee after Machado’s offer to give her award to Trump Machado's Vatican visit is part of her broader diplomatic outreach to seek global support for the democratic transition in Venezuela amid political turmoil in the country. On Friday, Pope Leo XIV, the first pope of US origins, criticised the use of military force as a tool to achieve diplomatic goals and called for the protection of human rights in Venezuela. He called for the country to remain independent after the capture of Maduro at the order of US President Trump. Machado, who is due to visit Washington, thanked US President Trump for capturing Nicolas Maduro and offered to share her Nobel Peace Prize with Donald Trump. The Norwegian Nobel Committee, however, stated that a Peace Prize can not be "shared, revoked and transferred once it is awarded to someone. "A Nobel Prize can neither be revoked, shared, nor transferred to others. Once the announcement has been made, the decision stands for all time," the Nobel Committee's statement read.

In a major foreign policy speech on Friday, the Pope criticised the use of military force as a tool to achieve diplomatic objectives and called for the protection of human rights in Venezuela.

Venezuela’s Machado meets Pope Leo, seeks support for release of political prisoners

Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado, in an interview with Fox News, offered to share her Nobel Peace Prize with the US President Donald Trump.She also thanked Trump for his intervention in Venezuela and for abducting Nicolas Maduro. She claimed it was a “huge step for humanity, for freedom and human dignity.” Despite her overt alignment with the US hegemony and corporate agenda, she was deemed not fit for the top role in Venezuela.&nbsp;Fox News anchor Hannity asked Maria Corina Machado, “Did you at any point offer to give him the Nobel Peace Prize?”Machado responded, she didn't, “We want to give it to him. Share it with him.” &nbsp;Machado has been trying to gather support from the international community. In the process, she has made several claims, from privatising all resources of Venezuela and profiting US companies to moving the Venezuelan embassy in Israel to occupied Jerusalem, to dedicating her Nobel Prize to US President Donald Trump.Trump says he won't back Venezuelan opposition leader, María Corina Machado, because she has no support in Venezuela."I think it would be very tough for her to be the leader," said Trump," She doesn’t have the support or the respect within the country. She’s a very nice woman, but she doesn’t have the respect."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">NOW: Maria Machado is on FOX NEWS making a FOOL of herself. <a href="https://t.co/0EBTTHgm47">pic.twitter.com/0EBTTHgm47</a>&mdash; Spencer Hakimian (@SpencerHakimian) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpencerHakimian/status/2008366227962335628?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Every country struggles with its inner crisis, and it tries to find a solution for itself. Europe had the bloodiest French Revolution, which set off a series of subsequent revolutions across the continent; the US had its Civil War. Chavismo's social welfare record is not propaganda, massive wealth distribution, upliftment of a large number of people from poverty, universal health care and education. These were material changes that made a difference in the lives of underprivileged people. But it is also true that Chavismo was not devoid of corruption, and required diversifying its economy and institutional reform. Venezuela was not exceptional in having inner turbulence or economic crisis. The majority of this was caused by the market crash of 2014 and the repeated sanctions by the US. What is exceptional is the externalisation of the internal crisis.Western moral institution operates within a Euro-Atlantic moral framework, which uses soft powers such as the Nobel Peace Prize to serve its geopolitical interests. It's not that Machado won the Nobel Prize, so she is legitimate; the Nobel Prize itself works within a power system which prioritises which discourse is important.&nbsp;

Maria Corina Machado’s Nobel win, praise for Trump, and Venezuela’s oil politics reveal how Western soft power legitimises regime change while ignoring deeper crises.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado, in an interview with Fox News, offered to share her Nobel Peace Prize with the US President Donald Trump.She also thanked Trump for his intervention in Venezuela and for abducting Nicolas Maduro. She claimed it was a “huge step for humanity, for freedom and human dignity.” Despite her overt alignment with the US hegemony and corporate agenda, she was deemed not fit for the top role in Venezuela. Fox News anchor Hannity asked Maria Corina Machado, “Did you at any point offer to give him the Nobel Peace Prize?” Machado responded, she didn't, “We want to give it to him. Share it with him.” Machado has been trying to gather support from the international community. In the process, she has made several claims, from privatising all resources of Venezuela and profiting US companies to moving the Venezuelan embassy in Israel to occupied Jerusalem, to dedicating her Nobel Prize to US President Donald Trump. Trump says he won't back Venezuelan opposition leader, María Corina Machado, because she has no support in Venezuela. "I think it would be very tough for her to be the leader," said Trump," She doesn’t have the support or the respect within the country. She’s a very nice woman, but she doesn’t have the respect."

Maria Corina Machado’s Nobel win, praise for Trump, and Venezuela’s oil politics reveal how Western soft power legitimises regime change while ignoring deeper crises.

Machado offers to share her Nobel Peace Prize with Donald Trump

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on Monday (Jan 5) slammed the interim president Delcy Rodriguez, who was sworn in after Nicolas Maduro was captured in a US operation in Caracas, adding that she plans on returning to the country “as soon as possible.” Machado also vowed to “turn Venezuela into the energy hub of the Americas.”&nbsp;“I’m planning to go back to Venezuela as soon as possible,” Machado told broadcaster Sean Hannity on Fox News.Openly rejecting the country’s interim president, Machado said that Rodriguez “is one of the main architects of torture, persecution, corruption, narcotrafficking.”&nbsp;Rodriguez, who was Venezuela’s vice president under Maduro, has suggested her willingness to cooperate with Washington. Machado said that Venezuelans have rejected Rodriguez, adding that the voters were on the opposition’s side.“In free and fair elections, we will win by over 90 per cent of the votes, I have no doubt about it,” Machado said.Machado also vowed to “turn Venezuela into the energy hub of the Americas” and “dismantle all these criminal structures” that have harmed people of her country, promising to “bring millions of Venezuelans that have been forced to flee our country back home.”<h2>Maduro’s capture</h2>This comes after American forces on Saturday (Jan 3) seized the Venezuelan leader in what it described as its war against drug cartels and drug lords. In an operation titled Operation Absolute Resolve, the American forces entered Venezuela, bombed Caracas and captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their presidential palace under orders from US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;Trump also warned Mexico, Colombia, and Cuba of a possible US military action. He said that Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, was scared and suggested that a US operation could target Colombian President Gustavo Petro. The US president also claimed that Cuba was “ready to fall”, adding that “a lot of Cubans were killed” during the US operation to seize the Venezuelan leader.&nbsp;

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado rejected interim president Delcy Rodriguez after Maduro’s capture, accusing her of torture and corruption. She vowed to return “as soon as possible,” dismantle criminal networks and turn Venezuela into an energy hub.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on Monday (Jan 5) slammed the interim president Delcy Rodriguez, who was sworn in after Nicolas Maduro was captured in a US operation in Caracas, adding that she plans on returning to the country “as soon as possible.” Machado also vowed to “turn Venezuela into the energy hub of the Americas.” “I’m planning to go back to Venezuela as soon as possible,” Machado told broadcaster Sean Hannity on Fox News. Openly rejecting the country’s interim president, Machado said that Rodriguez “is one of the main architects of torture, persecution, corruption, narcotrafficking.” Rodriguez, who was Venezuela’s vice president under Maduro, has suggested her willingness to cooperate with Washington. Machado said that Venezuelans have rejected Rodriguez, adding that the voters were on the opposition’s side. “In free and fair elections, we will win by over 90 per cent of the votes, I have no doubt about it,” Machado said. Machado also vowed to “turn Venezuela into the energy hub of the Americas” and “dismantle all these criminal structures” that have harmed people of her country, promising to “bring millions of Venezuelans that have been forced to flee our country back home.” Maduro’s capture This comes after American forces on Saturday (Jan 3) seized the Venezuelan leader in what it described as its war against drug cartels and drug lords. In an operation titled Operation Absolute Resolve, the American forces entered Venezuela, bombed Caracas and captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their presidential palace under orders from US President Donald Trump. Trump also warned Mexico, Colombia, and Cuba of a possible US military action. He said that Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, was scared and suggested that a US operation could target Colombian President Gustavo Petro. The US president also claimed that Cuba was “ready to fall”, adding that “a lot of Cubans were killed” during the US operation to seize the Venezuelan leader.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado rejected interim president Delcy Rodriguez after Maduro’s capture, accusing her of torture and corruption. She vowed to return “as soon as possible,” dismantle criminal networks and turn Venezuela into an energy hub.

Venezuela’s Machado labels interim president as ‘architect of torture, narcotrafficking’, vows to ‘dismantle criminal structures’

US President Donald Trump captured the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores. But ahead of being abducted by Trump and his henchmen on early Saturday morning, Maduro's government remained defiant and said the US attack was a “flagrant violation” of the UN Charter and alleged that the objective of the attack is specifically Venezuela's “strategic reserves”, ie oil and minerals.&nbsp;The Trump administration has always seen the leftist dictator Nicolas Maduro as its enemy due to the ideological polarity, and has been trying to frame a violent campaign of “war on drugs” as the pretext for the legitimisation project of the Venezuelan regime change and resource grab. This has been assisted by another neocolonial entity, the European Union, by awarding an usurper, Maria Corina Machado, the Nobel Prize to frame her as a flagbearer of Western democracy. At the same time benefit the oil corporations of the US and Europe. In 2002, Maria Corina Machado tried to usurp Hugo Chavez, using foreign funding, specifically United States and signed away all the democratic institutions in Venezuela in the Carmona Decree. In 2009, Hugo Chavez said in an interview with Larry King that White House wanted him dead, the same thing happened with Salvador Allende, Fidel Castro and Che Guevara; and they bombed in Panama, Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, that is the history of the region.&nbsp;<h2>Trump openly claimed he wants Venezuelan oil</h2>Eventhough the US tried to frame it as a “war on drugs”, Trump, on numerous occasions in his unhinged speeches, bragged about his plan to throw away the Venezuelan regime for an oil grab. In 2024, just months ahead of the election, Trump was seen bragging about his typical neo-colonial plunder project. “When I left, Venezuela was ready to collapse. We would have taken it up, and we would've gotten all that oil. It would have been right next door.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">9 months before the 2024 election, Trump said he wanted Venezuela to collapse so he can take them over for oil, and now he&#39;s bombing Caracas on the first full moon of 2026. This was never about drugs. It was always about oil.<a href="https://t.co/se7limfQDi">pic.twitter.com/se7limfQDi</a>&mdash; Fifty Shades of Whey (@davenewworld_2) <a href="https://twitter.com/davenewworld_2/status/2007372939776405800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Venezuela has the world's largest oil reserve with 19.4 per cent, and Iran has the third largest oil reserve in the world with 13.3 per cent of the global oil reserve. So it is no secret why the European Union and the US don't get along with Iran and Venezuela and actively campaign for regime change by cultivating and legitimising an opposition through soft power like the Nobel Prize and then abducting the President of a country when organisation like the United Nations remains a silent spectator waiting as the world descends into anarchy.&nbsp;

Venezuela accuses the US of abducting President Nicolás Maduro to seize oil and mineral reserves, rejecting Trump’s “war on drugs” claim as a pretext.

US President Donald Trump captured the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores. But ahead of being abducted by Trump and his henchmen on early Saturday morning, Maduro's government remained defiant and said the US attack was a “flagrant violation” of the UN Charter and alleged that the objective of the attack is specifically Venezuela's “strategic reserves”, ie oil and minerals. The Trump administration has always seen the leftist dictator Nicolas Maduro as its enemy due to the ideological polarity, and has been trying to frame a violent campaign of “war on drugs” as the pretext for the legitimisation project of the Venezuelan regime change and resource grab. This has been assisted by another neocolonial entity, the European Union, by awarding an usurper, Maria Corina Machado, the Nobel Prize to frame her as a flagbearer of Western democracy. At the same time benefit the oil corporations of the US and Europe. In 2002, Maria Corina Machado tried to usurp Hugo Chavez, using foreign funding, specifically United States and signed away all the democratic institutions in Venezuela in the Carmona Decree. In 2009, Hugo Chavez said in an interview with Larry King that White House wanted him dead, the same thing happened with Salvador Allende, Fidel Castro and Che Guevara; and they bombed in Panama, Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, that is the history of the region. Trump openly claimed he wants Venezuelan oil Eventhough the US tried to frame it as a “war on drugs”, Trump, on numerous occasions in his unhinged speeches, bragged about his plan to throw away the Venezuelan regime for an oil grab. In 2024, just months ahead of the election, Trump was seen bragging about his typical neo-colonial plunder project. “When I left, Venezuela was ready to collapse. We would have taken it up, and we would've gotten all that oil. It would have been right next door.”

Venezuela accuses the US of abducting President Nicolás Maduro to seize oil and mineral reserves, rejecting Trump’s “war on drugs” claim as a pretext.

Trump wanted Venezuela to 'collapse' so the US could take control of its oil

María Corina Machado has not yet reacted to Donald Trump’s announcement claiming the capture of Nicolás Maduro and the launch of large-scale strikes in Venezuela.

María Corina Machado has not yet reacted to Donald Trump’s announcement claiming the capture of Nicolás Maduro and the launch of large-scale strikes in Venezuela.

Who is María Corina Machado? Nobel winner in focus after Trump captures Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro

In a poignant and hurried phone call, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado informed Jorgen Watne Frydnes, Chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, that she would be unable to reach the Nobel ceremony in time, despite risking her life to get to Oslo. Machado, whose struggle for democracy in Venezuela earned global recognition, spoke with deep emotion as she described the extraordinary efforts made by ordinary Venezuelans to help her flee safely. “So many people risked their lives in order for me to arrive in Oslo,” she told Frydnes. “This recognition is for the Venezuelan people. I want you to know that.”&nbsp;Speaking moments before boarding a flight, Machado expressed both gratitude and regret. While hundreds of Venezuelans, along with her family and team, had already gathered in Oslo for the ceremony, she had no choice but to miss the official event due to the dangerous logistics of her escape. “I’m very sad and very sorry to tell you that I won’t be able to arrive in time for the ceremony,” she said. “But I am on my way to Oslo right now.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-peace-prize-ceremony-maria-corina-machado-s-daughter-ana-corina-sosa-accepts-award-on-her-behalf-in-oslo-1765370711644">Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony: Maria Corina Machado's daughter, Ana Corina Sosa, accepts award on her behalf in Oslo</a><h2>Listen to the phone call between Maria Machado and Chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, Jorgen Watne Frydnes</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;As soon as I arrive I will be able to embrace all my family and my children that I have not seen for two years and so many Venezuelan-Norwegians that I know share our struggle.&quot; Listen to 2025 peace laureate Maria Corina Machado&#39;s exclusive phone call that took place earlier… <a href="https://t.co/oOwsklo35k">pic.twitter.com/oOwsklo35k</a>&mdash; The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) <a href="https://twitter.com/NobelPrize/status/1998723553080787372?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Machado noted that this award belongs to all Venezuelans fighting for democracy. She highlighted the personal cost of her struggle, mentioning she has not seen her children for two years. "As soon as I arrive I will be able to embrace all my family and my children that I have not seen for two years and so many Venezuelan-Norwegians that I know share our struggle." &nbsp;Frydnes reassured her that her daughter, Ana-Corina, would represent the family at the ceremony and that Norway would welcome her warmly upon arrival.&nbsp;“We are so happy to hear your voice and that you’re safe,” Frydnes replied. “Safe travels. Norway looks forward to welcoming you.” Machado ended the call with a promise filled with emotion: “I’ll see you very soon.”

'As soon as I arrive I will be able to embrace all my family and my children': Nobel Peace prize winner Maria Corina Machado on reaching Oslo

In a poignant and hurried phone call, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado informed Jorgen Watne Frydnes, Chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, that she would be unable to reach the Nobel ceremony in time, despite risking her life to get to Oslo. Machado, whose struggle for democracy in Venezuela earned global recognition, spoke with deep emotion as she described the extraordinary efforts made by ordinary Venezuelans to help her flee safely. “So many people risked their lives in order for me to arrive in Oslo,” she told Frydnes. “This recognition is for the Venezuelan people. I want you to know that.” Speaking moments before boarding a flight, Machado expressed both gratitude and regret. While hundreds of Venezuelans, along with her family and team, had already gathered in Oslo for the ceremony, she had no choice but to miss the official event due to the dangerous logistics of her escape. “I’m very sad and very sorry to tell you that I won’t be able to arrive in time for the ceremony,” she said. “But I am on my way to Oslo right now.” Also Read: Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony: Maria Corina Machado's daughter, Ana Corina Sosa, accepts award on her behalf in Oslo Listen to the phone call between Maria Machado and Chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, Jorgen Watne Frydnes

Maria Corina Machado tells Nobel Committee chair she can’t reach the ceremony in time after a risky escape, calling the prize a victory for all Venezuelans

Maria Corina Machado's daughter, Ana Corina Sosa, accepted the Nobel Peace Prize award on her behalf in a ceremony held on Wednesday (December 10) in Oslo. Democracies must be willing to defend freedom in order to endure, Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Maria Corina Machado said on Wednesday. Her remarks were read by her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa Machado, as Machado was unable to attend the ceremony in Oslo.&nbsp;Machado said the award carried deep meaning not only for Venezuela but for people around the globe. “It is a reminder that peace is impossible without democracy,” her daughter read from the prepared remarks. She added that Venezuela’s long struggle had taught a crucial lesson: those who want to live in a democratic society must be ready to stand up for liberty. A large portrait of Machado smiling was placed inside Oslo City Hall to symbolise her presence.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-as-soon-as-i-arrive-i-will-be-able-to-embrace-all-my-family-and-my-children-nobel-peace-prize-winner-maria-corina-machado-on-reaching-oslo-1765371881454">'As soon as I arrive I will be able to embrace all my family and my children': Nobel Peace prize winner Maria Corina Machado on reaching Oslo</a>&nbsp;“Freedom is something we must win again each day, and only if we are willing to defend it,” the speech continued. “That is why Venezuela’s fight resonates far beyond its borders. When a nation chooses freedom, it not only frees itself, it strengthens humanity as a whole.” Machado was prohibited from competing in Venezuela’s 2024 presidential election despite a sweeping victory in the opposition primary. She went into hiding in August 2024 after authorities broadened their crackdown on opposition leaders following the disputed national vote.&nbsp;Although the electoral council and the Supreme Court proclaimed President Nicolas Maduro the victor, independent observers and opposition groups insist their candidate won. They have released detailed tallies from individual ballot boxes to support their claim.<h3>Warning about 'fragile' institutions</h3>In her comments, Machado said Venezuelans realised too late that their democratic system was deteriorating. “By the time we understood how weakened our institutions had become, the damage had already been done,” she said. She referenced former President Hugo Chavez, who came to power in 1999 after previously leading a failed military coup.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Many believed his charisma could take the place of the rule of law,” she said. “Since then, the regime has worked relentlessly to dismantle our democracy.” Maduro, who succeeded Chavez in 2013, maintains that US President Donald Trump has attempted to overthrow him in order to gain control of Venezuela’s vast oil resources. He argues that both Venezuelan citizens and the military would resist any such move.&nbsp;<h3>Tribute to US President Donald Trump</h3>After being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in October, Machado partly dedicated the honour to Trump, who has previously claimed he deserves the prize himself. Machado has aligned with hardline Trump associates who contend that Maduro’s government is tied to criminal networks that endanger US national security, a view not fully supported by US intelligence agencies.&nbsp;In recent months, the Trump administration authorised more than 20 military strikes against what it described as drug-trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and off the Pacific coast of Latin America. These operations have drawn sharp criticism from human rights organisations, Democratic lawmakers, and several Latin American governments, who argue the strikes amount to unlawful extrajudicial killings of civilians.

Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony: Maria Corina Machado's daughter, Ana Corina Sosa, accepts award on her behalf in Oslo

Maria Corina Machado's daughter, Ana Corina Sosa, accepted the Nobel Peace Prize award on her behalf in a ceremony held on Wednesday (December 10) in Oslo. Democracies must be willing to defend freedom in order to endure, Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Maria Corina Machado said on Wednesday. Her remarks were read by her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa Machado, as Machado was unable to attend the ceremony in Oslo. Machado said the award carried deep meaning not only for Venezuela but for people around the globe. “It is a reminder that peace is impossible without democracy,” her daughter read from the prepared remarks. She added that Venezuela’s long struggle had taught a crucial lesson: those who want to live in a democratic society must be ready to stand up for liberty. A large portrait of Machado smiling was placed inside Oslo City Hall to symbolise her presence. Also Read: 'As soon as I arrive I will be able to embrace all my family and my children': Nobel Peace prize winner Maria Corina Machado on reaching Oslo “Freedom is something we must win again each day, and only if we are willing to defend it,” the speech continued. “That is why Venezuela’s fight resonates far beyond its borders. When a nation chooses freedom, it not only frees itself, it strengthens humanity as a whole.” Machado was prohibited from competing in Venezuela’s 2024 presidential election despite a sweeping victory in the opposition primary. She went into hiding in August 2024 after authorities broadened their crackdown on opposition leaders following the disputed national vote. Although the electoral council and the Supreme Court proclaimed President Nicolas Maduro the victor, independent observers and opposition groups insist their candidate won. They have released detailed tallies from individual ballot boxes to support their claim. Warning about 'fragile' institutions In her comments, Machado said Venezuelans realised too late that their democratic system was deteriorating. “By the time we understood how weakened our institutions had become, the damage had already been done,” she said. She referenced former President Hugo Chavez, who came to power in 1999 after previously leading a failed military coup. “Many believed his charisma could take the place of the rule of law,” she said. “Since then, the regime has worked relentlessly to dismantle our democracy.” Maduro, who succeeded Chavez in 2013, maintains that US President Donald Trump has attempted to overthrow him in order to gain control of Venezuela’s vast oil resources. He argues that both Venezuelan citizens and the military would resist any such move. Tribute to US President Donald Trump After being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in October, Machado partly dedicated the honour to Trump, who has previously claimed he deserves the prize himself. Machado has aligned with hardline Trump associates who contend that Maduro’s government is tied to criminal networks that endanger US national security, a view not fully supported by US intelligence agencies. In recent months, the Trump administration authorised more than 20 military strikes against what it described as drug-trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and off the Pacific coast of Latin America. These operations have drawn sharp criticism from human rights organisations, Democratic lawmakers, and several Latin American governments, who argue the strikes amount to unlawful extrajudicial killings of civilians.

Maria Corina Machado's daughter, Ana Corina Sosa, accepted the Nobel Peace prize on her mother's behalf at a ceremony held in Oslo

Maria Corina Machado to Narges Mohammadi: Nobel laureates who couldn't accept prize in person at Oslo

Over the last few decades, several Nobel Peace Prize laureates have been unable to stand on the Oslo stage to receive their awards. From Iran’s Narges Mohammadi to China’s Liu Xiaobo, WION takes a look whose absence became powerful symbols of the struggles they fought

Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado, who has been living in hiding for over a year, will not appear at Wednesday’s (December 10) Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa Machado, will step in to receive the award and deliver her mother’s prepared remarks, organisers confirmed.<h2>Machado expected to arrive in Oslo by tomorrow morning says Nobel secretary</h2>"Unfortunately, she (Maria Corina Machado) will not be here in time for today's ceremony or for the other events. We are very happy that we will be able to welcome her in Oslo quite shortly" the secretary of the Norwegian Nobel Committee Kristian Berg Harpviken was quoted as saying to news agency AFP ahead of the Nobel Peace award ceremony. "It is expected that she will arrive sometime between this evening and tomorrow morning" he added.<h2>Where is Maria Corina Machado?</h2>Machado has kept out of sight since August last year amid escalating tensions with President Nicolas Maduro’s government. Venezuela’s attorney general has warned that the 58-year-old would be treated as a “fugitive” if she attempted to travel abroad to claim the prize. Uncertainty surrounded her possible attendance until shortly before the ceremony’s scheduled start at 1:00 pm (1200 GMT), when Nobel Institute spokesperson Erik Aasheim told news agency AFP that Machado would not be present. Institute director Kristian Berg Harpviken told NRK radio that her daughter would collect the prize on her behalf. Harpviken said he had no information about Machado’s current location.&nbsp;Several of Machado’s family members, along with Latin American leaders such as Argentina’s President Javier Milei, are in Oslo for the event. But doubts had grown after the customary pre-ceremony press conference with the laureate was postponed and ultimately cancelled. Machado has long argued that Maduro stole Venezuela’s July 2024 election, an assertion supported by many foreign governments. The ceremony takes place as US military activity increases in the Caribbean and tensions rise over strikes on alleged drug-smuggling vessels. Maduro claims the operations are part of a US effort to overthrow him and seize Venezuela’s oil wealth, a claim Machado has openly disputed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-microsoft-amazon-announces-35-billion-investment-to-boost-india-s-digital-future-1765360473366">After Microsoft, Amazon announces $35 billion investment to boost India’s digital future</a>&nbsp;Since going underground, Machado’s only public appearance was on January 9 in Caracas, where she protested against Maduro’s third-term inauguration. The opposition maintains its candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, now living in exile and present in Oslo, was the true winner of the 2024 vote. Machado received the Nobel Peace Prize on October 10 for her work promoting democratic change in Venezuela and challenging Maduro’s decade-long hold on power. Attorney General Tarek William Saab has accused her of conspiracy, incitement, and terrorism, insisting she would be a fugitive if she left the country.&nbsp;Harpviken noted that the Nobel Peace Prize has previously been accepted by family members when recipients were unable to attend. &nbsp;Machado is praised internationally for her fight for democratic freedoms but has also faced criticism for her close alignment with US President Donald Trump, to whom she dedicated her Nobel Prize.<h2>Who is Maria Corina Machado's daughter?</h2>Meanwhile, Nobel laureates in science, literature, and economics are receiving their awards at a separate ceremony in Stockholm. Ana Corina Sosa Machado, who will accept the prize in her mother’s name, represents Maria Corina globally and advocates for international recognition of Venezuela’s contested 2024 election outcome. Based in New York, she works at Celonis, a leading process-intelligence SaaS company. She holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Michigan.

Nobel Peace Prize: Where is Maria Corina Machado as her daughter steps in to collect the award in Oslo

Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado, who has been living in hiding for over a year, will not appear at Wednesday’s (December 10) Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa Machado, will step in to receive the award and deliver her mother’s prepared remarks, organisers confirmed. Machado expected to arrive in Oslo by tomorrow morning says Nobel secretary "Unfortunately, she (Maria Corina Machado) will not be here in time for today's ceremony or for the other events. We are very happy that we will be able to welcome her in Oslo quite shortly" the secretary of the Norwegian Nobel Committee Kristian Berg Harpviken was quoted as saying to news agency AFP ahead of the Nobel Peace award ceremony. "It is expected that she will arrive sometime between this evening and tomorrow morning" he added. Where is Maria Corina Machado? Machado has kept out of sight since August last year amid escalating tensions with President Nicolas Maduro’s government. Venezuela’s attorney general has warned that the 58-year-old would be treated as a “fugitive” if she attempted to travel abroad to claim the prize. Uncertainty surrounded her possible attendance until shortly before the ceremony’s scheduled start at 1:00 pm (1200 GMT), when Nobel Institute spokesperson Erik Aasheim told news agency AFP that Machado would not be present. Institute director Kristian Berg Harpviken told NRK radio that her daughter would collect the prize on her behalf. Harpviken said he had no information about Machado’s current location. Several of Machado’s family members, along with Latin American leaders such as Argentina’s President Javier Milei, are in Oslo for the event. But doubts had grown after the customary pre-ceremony press conference with the laureate was postponed and ultimately cancelled. Machado has long argued that Maduro stole Venezuela’s July 2024 election, an assertion supported by many foreign governments. The ceremony takes place as US military activity increases in the Caribbean and tensions rise over strikes on alleged drug-smuggling vessels. Maduro claims the operations are part of a US effort to overthrow him and seize Venezuela’s oil wealth, a claim Machado has openly disputed. Also Read: After Microsoft, Amazon announces $35 billion investment to boost India’s digital future Since going underground, Machado’s only public appearance was on January 9 in Caracas, where she protested against Maduro’s third-term inauguration. The opposition maintains its candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, now living in exile and present in Oslo, was the true winner of the 2024 vote. Machado received the Nobel Peace Prize on October 10 for her work promoting democratic change in Venezuela and challenging Maduro’s decade-long hold on power. Attorney General Tarek William Saab has accused her of conspiracy, incitement, and terrorism, insisting she would be a fugitive if she left the country. Harpviken noted that the Nobel Peace Prize has previously been accepted by family members when recipients were unable to attend. Machado is praised internationally for her fight for democratic freedoms but has also faced criticism for her close alignment with US President Donald Trump, to whom she dedicated her Nobel Prize. Who is Maria Corina Machado's daughter? Meanwhile, Nobel laureates in science, literature, and economics are receiving their awards at a separate ceremony in Stockholm. Ana Corina Sosa Machado, who will accept the prize in her mother’s name, represents Maria Corina globally and advocates for international recognition of Venezuela’s contested 2024 election outcome. Based in New York, she works at Celonis, a leading process-intelligence SaaS company. She holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Michigan.

María Corina Machado’s whereabouts remains unknown as her daughter is set to accept the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, delivering the speech the opposition leader wrote while in hiding

Nobel Peace Prize: Where is Maria Corina Machado as her daughter steps in to collect the award in Oslo?

Nobel officials cancelled a press conference with Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado in Oslo Tuesday, as it was unclear where the Venezuelan opposition leader was and whether she would collect her award in person. Machado was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on October 10 for her efforts to bring democracy to Venezuela, challenging the iron-fisted rule of Nicolas Maduro, who has been president since 2013.&nbsp;Originally scheduled for 1:00 pm (1200 GMT), the press conference with the 58-year-old, who went into hiding in her country in August 2024, was first postponed before finally being cancelled.&nbsp;"Maria Corina Machado herself said how difficult it was to come to Norway. We hope she will attend the Nobel Prize award ceremony" on Wednesday, institute spokesman Erik Aasheim told AFP.&nbsp;Following speculation about her whereabouts over the last few days, reporters were anticipating her first public appearance in 11 months.&nbsp;Machado last appeared in public at a demonstration in Caracas on January 9, protesting against Maduro's inauguration for his third term.&nbsp;Machado has accused Maduro of stealing the July 2024 election she was banned from standing in, a claim backed by much of the international community.<h2>‘Fugitive’</h2>Venezuela's attorney general, Tarek William Saab, said last month the opposition leader would be considered a "fugitive" if she travelled to Norway to accept the prize.&nbsp;"By being outside Venezuela and having numerous criminal investigations, she is considered a fugitive," Saab told AFP, adding that she is accused of "acts of conspiracy, incitement of hatred, terrorism".&nbsp;Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said Monday that he did not know if she would travel to Oslo.&nbsp;A trip to Oslo would raise thorny questions over her possible return to Venezuela or her ability to lead the Venezuelan opposition from exile.&nbsp;Michael Shifter, associate professor at Georgetown University, said that "under any scenario -- whether Machado can or can't return to Venezuela -- it will be very difficult to sustain momentum for the movement she inspired absent any progress in moving towards political change".&nbsp;"To be sure, it will be hard for Machado to lead the opposition in exile.&nbsp;But it will not be easy for her to do so even based in the country (when) most Venezuelans are facing dire economic and humanitarian conditions and increased repression by the Maduro regime," he told AFP.&nbsp;The Nobel prize ceremony will take place on Wednesday at 1:00 pm (1200 GMT) at Oslo's City Hall.&nbsp;Several members of Machado's family, including her mother, her three sisters and three children, were already in Oslo for the event.&nbsp;But none of them have disclosed Machado's location, with some claiming to be unaware of where she is.&nbsp;Several Latin American leaders, including Argentina's President Javier Milei -- like Machado, an ally of US President Donald Trump -- were also expected to attend the ceremony.<h2>Aligned with Trump</h2>Seen in Oslo on Monday was Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino, who said he came to "congratulate the hero of democracy and the struggling Venezuelan people" and voiced hope for a "return to democracy in Venezuela as soon as possible".&nbsp;A large police presence has meanwhile stood guard since Monday outside the Grand Hotel in central Oslo, which traditionally hosts the Nobel Peace Prize laureates, AFP journalists said.&nbsp;While Machado has been hailed by many for her efforts to bring democracy to Venezuela, she has also been criticised by others for aligning herself with Trump, to whom she dedicated her Nobel Prize.&nbsp;The Oslo ceremony coincides with a large US military build-up in the Caribbean in recent weeks and deadly strikes on what Washington says are drug smuggling boats.&nbsp;Maduro insists that the real goal of the US operations -- which Machado has said are justified -- is to topple the government and seize Venezuela's oil reserves.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Machado last appeared in public at a demonstration in Caracas on January 9, protesting against Maduro's inauguration for his third term.

Nobel officials cancelled a press conference with Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado in Oslo Tuesday, as it was unclear where the Venezuelan opposition leader was and whether she would collect her award in person. Machado was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on October 10 for her efforts to bring democracy to Venezuela, challenging the iron-fisted rule of Nicolas Maduro, who has been president since 2013. Originally scheduled for 1:00 pm (1200 GMT), the press conference with the 58-year-old, who went into hiding in her country in August 2024, was first postponed before finally being cancelled. "Maria Corina Machado herself said how difficult it was to come to Norway. We hope she will attend the Nobel Prize award ceremony" on Wednesday, institute spokesman Erik Aasheim told AFP. Following speculation about her whereabouts over the last few days, reporters were anticipating her first public appearance in 11 months. Machado last appeared in public at a demonstration in Caracas on January 9, protesting against Maduro's inauguration for his third term. Machado has accused Maduro of stealing the July 2024 election she was banned from standing in, a claim backed by much of the international community. ‘Fugitive’ Venezuela's attorney general, Tarek William Saab, said last month the opposition leader would be considered a "fugitive" if she travelled to Norway to accept the prize. "By being outside Venezuela and having numerous criminal investigations, she is considered a fugitive," Saab told AFP, adding that she is accused of "acts of conspiracy, incitement of hatred, terrorism". Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said Monday that he did not know if she would travel to Oslo. A trip to Oslo would raise thorny questions over her possible return to Venezuela or her ability to lead the Venezuelan opposition from exile. Michael Shifter, associate professor at Georgetown University, said that "under any scenario -- whether Machado can or can't return to Venezuela -- it will be very difficult to sustain momentum for the movement she inspired absent any progress in moving towards political change". "To be sure, it will be hard for Machado to lead the opposition in exile. But it will not be easy for her to do so even based in the country (when) most Venezuelans are facing dire economic and humanitarian conditions and increased repression by the Maduro regime," he told AFP. The Nobel prize ceremony will take place on Wednesday at 1:00 pm (1200 GMT) at Oslo's City Hall. Several members of Machado's family, including her mother, her three sisters and three children, were already in Oslo for the event. But none of them have disclosed Machado's location, with some claiming to be unaware of where she is. Several Latin American leaders, including Argentina's President Javier Milei -- like Machado, an ally of US President Donald Trump -- were also expected to attend the ceremony. Aligned with Trump Seen in Oslo on Monday was Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino, who said he came to "congratulate the hero of democracy and the struggling Venezuelan people" and voiced hope for a "return to democracy in Venezuela as soon as possible". A large police presence has meanwhile stood guard since Monday outside the Grand Hotel in central Oslo, which traditionally hosts the Nobel Peace Prize laureates, AFP journalists said. While Machado has been hailed by many for her efforts to bring democracy to Venezuela, she has also been criticised by others for aligning herself with Trump, to whom she dedicated her Nobel Prize. The Oslo ceremony coincides with a large US military build-up in the Caribbean in recent weeks and deadly strikes on what Washington says are drug smuggling boats. Maduro insists that the real goal of the US operations -- which Machado has said are justified -- is to topple the government and seize Venezuela's oil reserves. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Machado last appeared in public at a demonstration in Caracas on January 9, protesting against Maduro's inauguration for his third term.

Nobel-press conference cancellation fuels uncertainty over Machado’s whereabouts

Venezuela's attorney general told AFP Thursday that Nobel laureate and opposition leader Maria Corina Machado will be considered a "fugitive" if she travels to Norway to accept the peace prize.Machado, who says she is in hiding in Venezuela, has expressed an intention to travel to Oslo for the December 10 ceremony."By being outside Venezuela and having numerous criminal investigations, she is considered a fugitive," Attorney General Tarek William Saab said, adding she is accused of "acts of conspiracy, incitement of hatred, terrorism."Saab said Machado is also under investigation for her support of the United States's deployment of military forces in the Caribbean.US President Donald Trump has mobilized the world's largest aircraft carrier, warships and fighter jets with the stated aim of anti-drug operations, but Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro says they intend to overthrow his leftist government.Nobel laureate Machado has welcomed the military presence -- which has seen strikes on alleged drug boats claim at least 83 lives in the Caribbean and Pacific -- and has backed Washington's claim that Maduro heads a drug cartel.Caracas calls the boat strike deaths "extrajudicial executions."In a video posted to social media Tuesday, Machado said Venezuela is "on the threshold of a new era."Trump has said Maduro's days are numbered, and that he has authorized the CIA's clandestine operations in Venezuela.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.&nbsp;

Venezuela says opposition leader and Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado will be treated as a fugitive if she travels to Norway to accept her peace prize. Prosecutors accuse her of conspiracy and terrorism. Scroll for full story.

Venezuela's attorney general told AFP Thursday that Nobel laureate and opposition leader Maria Corina Machado will be considered a "fugitive" if she travels to Norway to accept the peace prize. Machado, who says she is in hiding in Venezuela, has expressed an intention to travel to Oslo for the December 10 ceremony. "By being outside Venezuela and having numerous criminal investigations, she is considered a fugitive," Attorney General Tarek William Saab said, adding she is accused of "acts of conspiracy, incitement of hatred, terrorism." Saab said Machado is also under investigation for her support of the United States's deployment of military forces in the Caribbean. US President Donald Trump has mobilized the world's largest aircraft carrier, warships and fighter jets with the stated aim of anti-drug operations, but Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro says they intend to overthrow his leftist government. Nobel laureate Machado has welcomed the military presence -- which has seen strikes on alleged drug boats claim at least 83 lives in the Caribbean and Pacific -- and has backed Washington's claim that Maduro heads a drug cartel. Caracas calls the boat strike deaths "extrajudicial executions." In a video posted to social media Tuesday, Machado said Venezuela is "on the threshold of a new era." Trump has said Maduro's days are numbered, and that he has authorized the CIA's clandestine operations in Venezuela. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Venezuela says opposition leader and Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado will be treated as a fugitive if she travels to Norway to accept her peace prize. Prosecutors accuse her of conspiracy and terrorism. Scroll for full story.

Venezuela says Nobel peace prize winner Maria Corina Machado will be declared a fugitive if she attends award ceremony

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Sunday (Oct 12) lashed out at opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, labelling her a “demonic witch” just two days after she won the Nobel Peace Prize. Maduro, who has long accused the opposition of plotting with foreign powers to topple his government, claimed that “ninety per cent of the population" rejects Machado. However, he did not comment directly on her award. This comes just two days after the Norwegian Nobel Committee on Friday (Oct 10) honoured Machado, 58, for her “tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-maria-corina-machado-nobel-prize-controversy-venezuela-1760178138493">How a failed coup became a credential of Nobel Prize for María Corina Machado</a><h2>"La Sayona"</h2>Speaking at an "Indigenous Resistance Day" event commemorating the discovery of the Americas, Maduro slammed Nobel Peace Prize winner Machado, saying, "Ninety per cent of the population rejects the demonic witch". While he did not take Machado's name, it was an apparent dig at the opposition leader. According to AFP, the Venezuelan government often refers to Machado as “la sayona,” a spirit from local folklore depicted as a pale-skinned woman with long black hair — a description often used to mock the opposition leader.“We want peace, and we will have peace, but peace with freedom, with sovereignty,” Maduro said at the event marking Venezuela’s version of Columbus Day.<h2>Why did he take a dig at Machado?</h2>Machado happens to be a vocal supporter of US-backed efforts to pressure Maduro’s government to transition away from autocratic rule and into democracy. She even dedicated her Nobel Prize to “the suffering people of Venezuela” and to US President Donald Trump, who was also nominated for the award.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-declares-war-is-over-in-gaza-ahead-of-peace-summit-in-egypt-1760316244168">Trump declares 'war is over in Gaza' ahead of peace summit in Egypt</a>Speaking on Fox News a day after her win, Machado said Trump “deserves” the Peace Prize “because not only has he been involved in resolving eight wars in just a few months, but his actions have been decisive in bringing Venezuela to the threshold of freedom.” However, her support for Trump has gained her the nickname "La Sayona" and accusations from Maduro that she was risking Venezuela's sovereignty and calling for a foreign invasion.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro called Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado a “demonic witch,” days after she was honoured for promoting democracy. At a public event, Maduro mocked her while accusing her of siding with foreign powers. Read full story.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Sunday (Oct 12) lashed out at opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, labelling her a “demonic witch” just two days after she won the Nobel Peace Prize. Maduro, who has long accused the opposition of plotting with foreign powers to topple his government, claimed that “ninety per cent of the population" rejects Machado. However, he did not comment directly on her award. This comes just two days after the Norwegian Nobel Committee on Friday (Oct 10) honoured Machado, 58, for her “tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.” Also read | How a failed coup became a credential of Nobel Prize for María Corina Machado "La Sayona" Speaking at an "Indigenous Resistance Day" event commemorating the discovery of the Americas, Maduro slammed Nobel Peace Prize winner Machado, saying, "Ninety per cent of the population rejects the demonic witch". While he did not take Machado's name, it was an apparent dig at the opposition leader. According to AFP, the Venezuelan government often refers to Machado as “la sayona,” a spirit from local folklore depicted as a pale-skinned woman with long black hair — a description often used to mock the opposition leader. “We want peace, and we will have peace, but peace with freedom, with sovereignty,” Maduro said at the event marking Venezuela’s version of Columbus Day. Why did he take a dig at Machado? Machado happens to be a vocal supporter of US-backed efforts to pressure Maduro’s government to transition away from autocratic rule and into democracy. She even dedicated her Nobel Prize to “the suffering people of Venezuela” and to US President Donald Trump, who was also nominated for the award. Also read | Trump declares 'war is over in Gaza' ahead of peace summit in Egypt Speaking on Fox News a day after her win, Machado said Trump “deserves” the Peace Prize “because not only has he been involved in resolving eight wars in just a few months, but his actions have been decisive in bringing Venezuela to the threshold of freedom.” However, her support for Trump has gained her the nickname "La Sayona" and accusations from Maduro that she was risking Venezuela's sovereignty and calling for a foreign invasion.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro called Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado a “demonic witch,” days after she was honoured for promoting democracy. At a public event, Maduro mocked her while accusing her of siding with foreign powers. Read full story.

Maduro calls Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado a ‘demonic witch’. Here's why

The Nobel Peace Prize 2025 was awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. The Nobel Committee praised Machado, 58, as "one of the most extraordinary examples of civilian courage in Latin America in recent times". Nobel chairman Jørgen Watne Frydnes called her a ‘key, unifying figure’ who campaigned against Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro. The Nobel Committee said that it has recognised her struggle to achieve a “just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.” However, following the announcement, many pointed out Maria Corina Machado's controversial views and her support to the Israel-Gaza war.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-are-the-5-nobel-peace-prize-judges-behind-mar-a-corina-machado-s-2025-win-over-trump-1760090471341">Who are the 5 Nobel Peace Prize judges behind María Corina Machado’s 2025 win over Trump?</a><h2>Why is Machado being criticised?</h2>Just a few days ahead of winning the prize, Machado supported the Trump administration's military buildup in the Caribbean alleged drug vessel off Venezuelan shore, arguing that “this is about saving lives,” because she too believes that ”Maduro is the head of a narco-terrorist structure of cooperation.” She also supported one-sided attack on the Palestinian civilians is a strong ally of Benjamin Netanyahu. Following the October 7 attack by Hamas and the beginning of Gaza operation by Israel, Machado said terrorism must be defeated at all costs and "whatever form it takes." There is a claim that in 2018 Machado sent a letter to Netanyahu asking for the use of “power” against the Venezuelan government. She had reportedly cited the left-wing government's alleged association with Iran and extremist groups as a reason for this.&nbsp; Critics have also raised concerns over alleged claims that suggest she supports far-right figures like Jair Bolsonaro and Netanyahu and maintains close ties with Israel's Likud party, including a 2020 cooperation deal. Some commentators, like journalist Dima Khatib, have reportedly accused her of backing Israel's actions in Gaza. Others argue that awarding her the Nobel Peace Prize reflects alleged Western political bias, with Pakistani writer Fatima Bhutto calling the prize “worthless” for ignoring Gazan journalists and doctors.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-didn-t-say-give-it-to-me-trump-breaks-silence-on-nobel-peace-prize-snub-says-venezuelan-winner-called-him-and-said-you-deserved-it-1760147503345">'I didn't say give it to me...': Trump breaks silence on Nobel Peace Prize snub, says Venezuelan winner called…</a><h2>How Trump reacted to Nobel prize snub&nbsp;</h2>Trump dismissed the Nobel Peace Prize snub, saying he never asked for it, despite past interest. Speaking to reporters, Trump claimed that he had extended assistance to Machado on multiple occasions. Trump also said that Machado called him and said that he deserved the award. “The person who got the Nobel Prize called me today and said, 'I'm accepting this in honour of you because you really deserved it'... I didn't say, 'Give it to me', though. I think she might have... I've been helping her along the way... I'm happy because I saved millions of lives...,” Trump said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-waits-for-nobel-peace-prize-ahead-of-announcement-four-us-presidents-and-a-vp-who-won-it-before-him-1760075917684">Trump faces Nobel Peace Prize snub: Four US presidents and a VP who won it before him</a>

Maria Corina Machado won the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for opposing Venezuela's regime. Critics cite her alleged support for Netanyahu, Trump, and Gaza war. Trump, snubbed for the prize, claimed Machado accepted it in his honor. The award drew accusations of Western political bias.

The Nobel Peace Prize 2025 was awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. The Nobel Committee praised Machado, 58, as "one of the most extraordinary examples of civilian courage in Latin America in recent times". Nobel chairman Jørgen Watne Frydnes called her a ‘key, unifying figure’ who campaigned against Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro. The Nobel Committee said that it has recognised her struggle to achieve a “just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.” However, following the announcement, many pointed out Maria Corina Machado's controversial views and her support to the Israel-Gaza war. Read More | Who are the 5 Nobel Peace Prize judges behind María Corina Machado’s 2025 win over Trump? Why is Machado being criticised? Just a few days ahead of winning the prize, Machado supported the Trump administration's military buildup in the Caribbean alleged drug vessel off Venezuelan shore, arguing that “this is about saving lives,” because she too believes that ”Maduro is the head of a narco-terrorist structure of cooperation.” She also supported one-sided attack on the Palestinian civilians is a strong ally of Benjamin Netanyahu. Following the October 7 attack by Hamas and the beginning of Gaza operation by Israel, Machado said terrorism must be defeated at all costs and "whatever form it takes." There is a claim that in 2018 Machado sent a letter to Netanyahu asking for the use of “power” against the Venezuelan government. She had reportedly cited the left-wing government's alleged association with Iran and extremist groups as a reason for this. Critics have also raised concerns over alleged claims that suggest she supports far-right figures like Jair Bolsonaro and Netanyahu and maintains close ties with Israel's Likud party, including a 2020 cooperation deal. Some commentators, like journalist Dima Khatib, have reportedly accused her of backing Israel's actions in Gaza. Others argue that awarding her the Nobel Peace Prize reflects alleged Western political bias, with Pakistani writer Fatima Bhutto calling the prize “worthless” for ignoring Gazan journalists and doctors. Read More | 'I didn't say give it to me...': Trump breaks silence on Nobel Peace Prize snub, says Venezuelan winner called… How Trump reacted to Nobel prize snub Trump dismissed the Nobel Peace Prize snub, saying he never asked for it, despite past interest. Speaking to reporters, Trump claimed that he had extended assistance to Machado on multiple occasions. Trump also said that Machado called him and said that he deserved the award. “The person who got the Nobel Prize called me today and said, 'I'm accepting this in honour of you because you really deserved it'... I didn't say, 'Give it to me', though. I think she might have... I've been helping her along the way... I'm happy because I saved millions of lives...,” Trump said. Read More | Trump faces Nobel Peace Prize snub: Four US presidents and a VP who won it before him

Maria Corina Machado won the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for opposing Venezuela's regime. Critics cite her alleged support for Netanyahu, Trump, and Gaza war. Trump, snubbed for the prize, claimed Machado accepted it in his honour. The award drew accusations of Western political bias.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Machado supports Netanyahu's Gaza war, Trump's airstrikes on Venezuelan boats? Here's the TRUTH

Venezuelan pro-democracy opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who won the Nobel Peace Prize 2025, dedicated the award to the US President Donald Trump on Friday while praising him for his “decisive support” for the people of Venezuela. The Norwegian Nobel Committee hailed Machado for her “tireless work promoting democratic rights” and advocating for a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy in Venezuela. “This recognition of the struggle of all Venezuelans is a boost to conclude our task: to conquer freedom. We are on the threshold of victory and today, more than ever, we count on President Trump, the people of the United States, the peoples of Latin America, and the democratic nations of the world as our principal allies to achieve freedom and democracy,” she wrote on X.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This recognition of the struggle of all Venezuelans is a boost to conclude our task: to conquer Freedom. We are on the threshold of victory and today, more than ever, we count on President Trump, the people of the United States, the peoples of Latin America, and the democratic…&mdash; María Corina Machado (@MariaCorinaYA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MariaCorinaYA/status/1976642376119549990?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;“I dedicate this prize to the suffering people of Venezuela and to President Trump for his decisive support of our cause!” she said.&nbsp;She highlighted the support she hopes to continue receiving from international allies.&nbsp;President Trump had also batted for Machado and her movement for democracy in the past.In January this year, when Machado was briefly detained during an anti-government protest against Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela’s Caracas, Trump called for her safety.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-nobel-laureates-filled-with-courage-integrity-says-committee-after-dashing-trump-s-hopes-1760101164974">‘Nobel laureates filled with courage, integrity,’ says committee after dashing Trump’s hopes</a>&nbsp;Before his inauguration, Trump said in a post on Truth Social, “Venezuelan democracy activist Maria Corina Machado and President-elect Gonzalez are peacefully expressing the voices and the WILL of the Venezuelan people with hundreds of thousands of people demonstrating against the regime. The great Venezuelan American community in the United States overwhelmingly support a free Venezuela, and strongly supported me. These freedom fighters should not be harmed, and MUST stay SAFE and ALIVE!”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump’s Truth Social post on January 10

&nbsp;&nbsp;Machado was forced into hiding after last year’s election that was widely seen as having been rigged by the incumbent President Nicolas Maduro.&nbsp;The Maduro government has often threatened to arrest Machado. She was briefly detained when she emerged from hiding to attend an opposition rally in January but she was quickly released following an outcry in Venezuela and on an international level.&nbsp;The Nobel Peace Prize also highlights the repression that the Maduro government has unleashed on the opposition and those connected to it.&nbsp;As per reports, there are currently 841 political prisoners being held in detention in Venezuela.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ceasefire-agreement-comes-into-effect-idf-troops-retreat-palestinians-start-returning-1760093917085">Ceasefire agreement comes into effect; IDF troops retreat; Palestinians start returning</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Venezuelan politician Edmundo González congratulated María Corina Machado on her Nobel Peace Prize win. During the call from Spain, where González is in exile, Machado told him, “I am in shock. I cannot believe it.”&nbsp;The Norwegian Nobel committee praised Machado as a key unifying figure in the opposition, advocating for free elections and representative government.&nbsp;President Nicolás Maduro’s government disqualified her from running in last year’s presidential election.&nbsp;Machado becomes the 20th woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, joining a distinguished group of laureates. WATCH: Italy: Burqa Ban in Italy Soon? | Govt Considers Public Veil Ban<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italy-burqa-ban-in-italy-soon-govt-considers-public-veil-ban-1760103331296/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/italy-burqa-ban-in-italy-soon-govt-considers-public-veil-ban-1760103331296/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump had also batted for Maria Corina Machado and her movement for democracy in the past. In January this year, when Machado was briefly detained during an anti-government protest against Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela’s Caracas, Trump called for her safety.

Venezuelan pro-democracy opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who won the Nobel Peace Prize 2025, dedicated the award to the US President Donald Trump on Friday while praising him for his “decisive support” for the people of Venezuela. The Norwegian Nobel Committee hailed Machado for her “tireless work promoting democratic rights” and advocating for a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy in Venezuela. “This recognition of the struggle of all Venezuelans is a boost to conclude our task: to conquer freedom. We are on the threshold of victory and today, more than ever, we count on President Trump, the people of the United States, the peoples of Latin America, and the democratic nations of the world as our principal allies to achieve freedom and democracy,” she wrote on X.

US President Donald Trump had also batted for Maria Corina Machado and her movement for democracy in the past. In January this year, when Machado was briefly detained during an anti-government protest against Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela’s Caracas, Trump called for her safety.

Maria Corina Machado dedicates her Nobel to Trump for backing Venezuelans’ cause

In a surprising twist, the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado for her tireless efforts to promote democratic rights and her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy

In a surprising twist, the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado for her tireless efforts to promote democratic rights and her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.

How Donald Trump has done more than Noble prize winner 'María Corina Machado' for Venezuela?

The announcement came amid intense speculation that former US President Donald Trump might be in contention. This year, the prize attracted 338 nominations, comprising 244 individuals and 94 organisations. 

The announcement came amid intense speculation that former US President Donald Trump might be in contention. This year, the prize attracted 338 nominations, comprising 244 individuals and 94 organisations.&nbsp;

Who are the 5 Nobel Peace Prize judges behind María Corina Machado’s 2025 win over Trump?

The announcement also came amid speculation that former US President Donald Trump, who had actively campaigned for the award, might have been considered.

Reacting to her Nobel recognition, Machado expressed humility, saying she doesn't deserve this, it is actually a movement, “I am humbled and working for the people. It's a recognition of the Venezuelan people. I'm speechless”

Who is María Corina Machado? The Venezuelan leader who snubbed Trump to win the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro, denounced by the western media as an 'autocrat' ruling the oil-rich South American nation since March 2013, is facing a formidable challenge in this Sunday's presidential elections. The challenge is from a little-known diplomat Edmundo Gonzalez. But the driving force behind Gonzalez's campaign is Maria Corina Machado, an industrial engineer-turned-politician who has remained a central figure in anti-Maduro protests amid Venezuelan hyperinflation in recent years.<img alt="Venezuelan opposition presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez looks on during a campaign rally for the presidential election in Valencia, Carabobo State, Venezuela, July 13, 2024. REUTERS/Gaby Oraa/File Photo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4e276ca0-2dbc-4267-b950-441bf8f690c0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/VenezuelaOppositionCandidate.png" />

Venezuelan opposition presidential candidate&nbsp;Edmundo&nbsp;Gonzalez looks on during a campaign rally for the presidential election in Valencia, Carabobo State, Venezuela, July 13, 2024 | Reuters

A recent Machado profile in the New York Times paints a picture of remarkable popularity that Machado appears to helm over ahead of the presidential elections.&nbsp;

The elections on Sunday (July 28) will test her popularity.&nbsp;

<h2>Why Machado is not presidential candidate against Nicolas Maduro?</h2>

This is because Machado was barred from ballot in January after a high court ruling upheld a Maduro administration decision over her electoral exclusion due to alleged financial irregularities that occurred when she was a national legislator.&nbsp;

But as public pressure tightened the noose around Maduro administration for a free and fair elections, the government allowed Machado to nominate a different candidate. Edmundo Gonzalez became the consensus choice.&nbsp;

If the Opposition wins Sunday's elections, Gonzalez will be the president. But Machado is widely perceived to be the real power behind a potential Edmundo presidency.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Venezuela opposition registers presidential candidate to keep spot on ballot

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For Indian readers of WION, this will be akin to Sonia Gandhi-Dr Manmohan Singh arrangement during Congress-led United Progressive Alliance's (UPA) government in India (2004-2014), when Dr Manmohan Singh was the prime minister but Sonia Gandhi was widely perceived to be the real power figure in and beyond New Delhi's corridors of power.&nbsp;

In an interview with New York Times, Machado said that she admires former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, the conservative icon known for her fealty to the free market.&nbsp;

For her economic preference, Venezuelan journalists call her the country's "iron lady", much like Thatcher.&nbsp;

Machado is a mother of three adult children, all of whom live abroad.

(With inputs from agencies)

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro, denounced by the western media as an 'autocrat' ruling the oil-rich South American nation since March 2013, is facing a formidable challenge in this Sunday's presidential elections.

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro, denounced by the western media as an 'autocrat' ruling the oil-rich South American nation since March 2013, is facing a formidable challenge in this Sunday's presidential elections. The challenge is from a little-known diplomat Edmundo Gonzalez. But the driving force behind Gonzalez's campaign is Maria Corina Machado, an industrial engineer-turned-politician who has remained a central figure in anti-Maduro protests amid Venezuelan hyperinflation in recent years. Venezuelan opposition presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez looks on during a campaign rally for the presidential election in Valencia, Carabobo State, Venezuela, July 13, 2024 | Reuters A recent Machado profile in the New York Times paints a picture of remarkable popularity that Machado appears to helm over ahead of the presidential elections. The elections on Sunday (July 28) will test her popularity. Why Machado is not presidential candidate against Nicolas Maduro? This is because Machado was barred from ballot in January after a high court ruling upheld a Maduro administration decision over her electoral exclusion due to alleged financial irregularities that occurred when she was a national legislator. But as public pressure tightened the noose around Maduro administration for a free and fair elections, the government allowed Machado to nominate a different candidate. Edmundo Gonzalez became the consensus choice. If the Opposition wins Sunday's elections, Gonzalez will be the president. But Machado is widely perceived to be the real power behind a potential Edmundo presidency. Also watch | Venezuela opposition registers presidential candidate to keep spot on ballot × For Indian readers of WION, this will be akin to Sonia Gandhi-Dr Manmohan Singh arrangement during Congress-led United Progressive Alliance's (UPA) government in India (2004-2014), when Dr Manmohan Singh was the prime minister but Sonia Gandhi was widely perceived to be the real power figure in and beyond New Delhi's corridors of power. In an interview with New York Times, Machado said that she admires former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, the conservative icon known for her fealty to the free market. For her economic preference, Venezuelan journalists call her the country's "iron lady", much like Thatcher. Machado is a mother of three adult children, all of whom live abroad. (With inputs from agencies)

Venezuela elections: Meet María Corina Machado, the 'Iron Lady' slaying her way to challenge President Maduro

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