President Donald Trump has denied reports that Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado was sidelined because of her Nobel Peace Prize win, insisting the award played no role in his decision-making.
Addressing the controversy, Trump insisted the accolade had "no bearing" on his geopolitical strategy, though he offered a pointed critique of the laureate, remarking that she “should not have won” the prestigious award.
Responding to claims that her receipt of the prize influenced U.S. policy, Trump said the Nobel had "no bearing" on his geopolitical strategy.
He nevertheless criticised the decision to award it to Machado, saying she "should not have won".
His remarks followed a report by The Washington Post, which suggested Trump withheld support for Machado because she accepted the prize.
The Nobel Peace Prize is an honour Trump has repeatedly said he believes he deserves, having publicly criticised the Norwegian committee in the past for overlooking him.
Citing sources close to the administration, the newspaper reported that Machado’s acceptance of the award was viewed as her "greatest sin" in Trump’s eyes.
It said the decision was interpreted as a personal affront, despite Machado dedicating the prize to the U.S. president.
The report added that had she declined the Nobel, she might now be leading Venezuela, following the power vacuum created by the detention of socialist leader Nicolás Maduro.
The dispute comes at a critical moment for Caracas. After Maduro’s detention by U.S. authorities, governments around the world have been seeking ways to stabilise Venezuela.
Machado, who has spent years uniting opposition forces against the Chavista movement, has been widely viewed by international observers as the most credible figure to lead a political transition.
However, hesitation in Washington has complicated the process, raising questions about whether personal grievances are shaping U.S. foreign policy.
UK government response
While the U.S. position remains uncertain, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has moved to engage with Machado.
UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper confirmed that London has established formal contact with the opposition leader.
"Her unwavering fight for democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Venezuela, and against repression, is inspiring," Cooper said, adding that the UK would remain in close contact in the coming weeks.
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