Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize this year for her persistent efforts to promote democracy and protect the rights of Venezuelan citizens. The main ceremony is scheduled for December 10 in Oslo, Norway, but it remains uncertain whether Machado will be able to personally receive the award, as she has been in hiding in Venezuela for the past year due to multiple legal cases against her, including charges of incitement, terrorism, and conspiracy.
The Venezuelan Attorney General has warned that if Machado leaves the country to accept the Nobel Prize, she would be declared a fugitive. Authorities allege that she supported the deployment of U.S. military forces in the Caribbean and surrounding waters, and traveling abroad could trigger severe consequences. These developments have fueled speculation that Machado may skip the Nobel ceremony to avoid arrest.
Despite the challenges, the Norwegian Nobel Committee recognized Machado for her unwavering struggle to lead Venezuela from authoritarian rule toward democracy through peaceful means. Machado has expressed her joy virtually, dedicating the award to the Venezuelan people and to U.S. President Donald Trump for supporting their cause, while continuing to face threats and political pressure at home.