WASHINGTON (AP) – The Norwegian Nobel Institute has clarified that the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado cannot be revoked, transferred, or shared with anyone, including former President Donald Trump. This statement was made in response to Machado's expressed desire to share her award with Trump, who played a key role in the U.S. operation that led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro, the authoritarian president of Venezuela currently facing drug trafficking charges in New York.

On a recent Fox News appearance with host Sean Hannity, Machado stated, “I certainly would love to be able to personally tell him that we believe—the Venezuelan people, because this is a prize of the Venezuelan people—certainly want to, to give it to him and share it with him.” She emphasized the historic nature of Trump’s actions regarding Venezuela and described the potential sharing of the prize as a significant step toward a democratic transition in the country.

Immediately following the announcement of her Nobel Peace Prize, Machado dedicated the honor not only to Trump but also to the people of Venezuela. Trump, who has long expressed interest in winning the Nobel Prize himself, responded to Machado's comments by acknowledging her as a “very nice woman.” However, he indicated that he does not currently believe Machado has the necessary support within Venezuela to assume governance, as he is reportedly backing Delcy Rodríguez, the acting president and former vice president under Maduro.

Trump mentioned Machado's plans to visit Venezuela soon, referring to the idea of her offering the Nobel Peace Prize to him as a “great honor.” This interaction highlights the complex relationship between the U.S. and Venezuelan political landscapes and the ongoing strategic interests of both parties in navigating Venezuela's challenging political situation.

As the situation develops, Machado's comments and Trump's reactions may influence public discourse around the future of governance in Venezuela and the international perception of both leaders' roles in the country's political dynamics.