In a historic moment for Venezuela, opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has been awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her relentless fight against dictatorship in the country. The 58-year-old industrial engineer, currently living in hiding, was recognized by the Norwegian Nobel Committee for her courageous efforts to promote democracy and freedom in Venezuela. Machado, who was barred from running for president in 2024 by Venezuela’s courts, dedicated the award to the suffering people of Venezuela and acknowledged U.S. President Donald Trump for his unwavering support of her cause. Trump, a vocal critic of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, has been a key ally in the international effort to challenge Maduro’s regime. The Nobel Committee praised Machado as a symbol of resistance against authoritarianism, highlighting her role in inspiring a movement for democratic change. However, it remains uncertain whether Machado will be able to attend the award ceremony in Oslo on December 10 due to her precarious situation. The White House, while critical of the Nobel Committee’s focus on Venezuela amidst other global conflicts, expressed hope that the award would energize the Venezuelan opposition’s push for a peaceful transition to democracy. The United Nations also welcomed the recognition, viewing it as a testament to the Venezuelan people’s aspirations for free and fair elections. This marks the first time a Venezuelan has won the Nobel Peace Prize, adding to the legacy of Latin American laureates. The award comes at a time of heightened tensions in Venezuela, with the U.S. intensifying its efforts to combat drug cartels in the region, an operation Machado has publicly supported. As the world watches, Machado’s recognition serves as a beacon of hope for those striving for freedom and justice in Venezuela and beyond.
Venezuela’s opposition leader Machado wins Nobel Peace Prize, dedicates to Trump
