Maria Corina Machado, a prominent Venezuelan pro-democracy leader, expressed that her recent Nobel Peace Prize award is a powerful message to her compatriots: “We are not alone.” In an interview with CBS News, she emphasized that this recognition reflects the global acknowledgment of Venezuela’s ongoing struggle for democracy.
Nobel Peace Prize Recognition
The Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded Machado the Nobel Peace Prize for her role in maintaining support for democracy amid oppressive conditions in Venezuela. “This is the biggest recognition to our people,” she shared during the interview. Known as Venezuela’s “Iron Lady,” Machado, 58, has spent over two decades challenging the country’s oppressive rulers.
Historical Context
Machado began her political career challenging the late President Hugo Chavez and is now standing against his successor, President Nicolas Maduro. The Maduro regime’s legitimacy is widely disputed, particularly following the July 2024 elections, which the U.S. did not recognize. Instead, it declared opposition leader Edmundo González, currently in exile, as the legitimate winner.
U.S. Involvement
In recent months, the Trump administration has intensified its campaign against Maduro’s government, including deploying warships to the Caribbean and engaging in military actions against Venezuelan drug trafficking. The White House has informed Congress of an ongoing “non-international armed conflict” with designated terrorist organizations tied to the Venezuelan regime.
Emotional Acceptance
Machado’s acceptance of the Nobel Peace Prize was captured in an emotional video call with Kristian Berg Harpviken, director of the Norwegian Nobel Institute. Overcome with gratitude, she stated, “This is a movement, this is an achievement for a whole society.”
Personal Risks and Future Outlook
Receiving the Nobel has significant implications for Machado’s security, as she has spent the past year in hiding due to threats from Maduro’s regime. Reflecting on her situation, she noted that this recognition may provide her with more protection. However, her primary concern remains raising awareness about Venezuela’s plight on a global scale.
Message to U.S. Leadership
Following her award announcement, Machado communicated with President Trump, expressing her appreciation on behalf of Venezuelans. She assured him of their commitment to freedom and their determination to succeed in their fight against oppression.
