Venezuela’s opposition leader María Corina Machado has said she has “no regrets” over her symbolic decision to hand over her Nobel Peace Prize to US President Donald Trump during a meeting in January, describing it as a gesture of political significance linked to Venezuela’s struggle for democracy.
Speaking at a press conference in Madrid on Saturday, Machado defended her action, saying it was based on her belief that certain global leaders had played a key role in supporting Venezuela’s political cause. She emphasized that the move was intentional and meaningful from her perspective.
Reports state that Machado met Donald Trump at the White House shortly after major US military developments involving Caracas, where she presented him with her Nobel Peace Prize medal as a symbolic recognition of what she described as his support for Venezuela’s freedom movement.
Addressing the media, she reiterated that recent events in Venezuela represent a defining moment in the country’s history, adding that they will remain unforgettable for its people.
When asked about the decision, she firmly responded, “No, I have no regrets,” reaffirming her stance on the symbolic gesture.
Machado, who has been living in exile since December, also said she is coordinating plans for a possible return to Venezuela in consultation with international partners, including Washington, as part of broader discussions on political transition.
She further told supporters in Madrid that they should remain prepared for a future return and the rebuilding of what she described as a “free and democratic Venezuela.”
Meanwhile, Venezuela’s opposition has renewed its call for fresh presidential elections. Machado remains a key political figure, although she has not confirmed whether she will contest any upcoming election.
