President Trump accepted a Nobel Peace Prize medal presented by Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado during a private meeting at the White House.

Machado described the historic exchange, noting that 200 years ago, General Lafayette gave Simón Bolívar a medal featuring George Washington’s likeness as a symbol of brotherhood between nations fighting for freedom against tyranny. She stated that “Bolivar kept that medal for the rest of his life,” and today, “the people of Bolivar are giving back to the heir of Washington, a medal of a Nobel Peace Prize.”

Trump expressed gratitude on Truth Social: “It was my Great Honor to meet María Corina Machado, of Venezuela, today. She is a wonderful woman who has been through so much. María presented me with her Nobel Peace Prize for the work I have done. Such a wonderful gesture of mutual respect. Thank you María!”

The president has campaigned for a Nobel Peace Prize nomination over his efforts to resolve global conflicts, securing support from leaders in Pakistan, Cambodia, Israel, and numerous Republican lawmakers. This year’s prize was awarded to Machado for her human rights advocacy in Venezuela.

Machado’s visit occurs amid uncertainty regarding Venezuela’s leadership following the U.S.-led ousting of President Nicolás Maduro. While Trump has not ruled out her involvement in future Venezuelan governance, he stated she lacks the support and respect of the Venezuelan people.