Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Machado has expressed her ambition to become the first female president of Venezuela, following her recent decision to present her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Donald Trump. In an exclusive interview with Fox News, aired on Friday, Machado emphasized her belief in her electoral prospects while praising Trump as deserving of the prestigious award.
During the interview, Machado stated, “He deserves it,” explaining her motivations for giving up her Nobel medal. “I decided to present the Nobel Peace Prize medal on behalf of the people of Venezuela, and I told President Trump where I found the inspiration to do that.” Her gesture comes amid heightened political tensions in Venezuela, particularly following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by American forces earlier this month.
Machado has garnered support from Republican figures who view her as a potential successor to Maduro. However, Trump has dismissed this notion, claiming that Machado lacks the “respect” of the Venezuelan people. Reports have emerged suggesting that Trump may harbor resentment towards Machado for accepting the Nobel Peace Prize, which he had pursued for himself. A White House insider noted that Machado would likely be “president of Venezuela today” had she declined the award and offered her backing to Trump instead.
In her conversation with Fox News’ Rachel Campos-Duffy, Machado reaffirmed her desire to lead Venezuela, stating, “I want to serve my country where I am more useful. I’ve got a mandate, and it has meant taking huge risks and paying very high costs, not only for me but also for my family and our teams.” She expressed confidence in her eventual election, declaring, “And I believe I will be elected when the right time comes as president of Venezuela, the first woman president of Venezuela!”
Machado was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her “tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela,” according to the Norwegian Nobel Committee. Despite this recognition, she has faced criticism for her alignment with right-leaning governments, her support for stringent U.S. sanctions against Venezuela, and her promotion of unverified claims, including allegations regarding the presence of the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Venezuela.
The dynamics of Venezuelan politics remain complex, with Machado’s aspirations highlighting the ongoing struggle for leadership and democratic governance in the country. As the political landscape continues to evolve, her statements signal a determination to play a significant role in Venezuela’s future.
