Norwegian politicians have condemned Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado’s decision to give her Nobel peace prize medal to US President Donald Trump, calling the gesture “absurd”. Machado presented the medal to Trump at the White House on Thursday in recognition of his commitment to Venezuela’s freedom, but critics say the award cannot be transferred.
The Nobel Peace Center stated that while a medal can change owners, the title of laureate cannot. The Norwegian Nobel Institute reiterated that the prize cannot be revoked, shared or transferred. Trump had previously invaded Venezuela and removed President Nicolás Maduro, handing power to Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez.
Kirsti Bergstø, leader of Norway’s Socialist Left party, called the situation “absurd” and noted that Trump’s threats to invade Greenland showed why he was not a worthy recipient. Trygve Slagsvold Vedum, leader of the Centre party, described Trump as a “classic showoff” who adorns himself with others’ honours. Raymond Johansen, secretary general of Norwegian People’s Aid, called the episode “unbelievably embarrassing and damaging” to the prize’s reputation.
The White House shared a photograph of Trump with the medal in a gold frame. The Norwegian foreign ministry declined to comment, referring inquiries to the Norwegian Nobel Committee, which did not immediately respond. Machado had been awarded the prize in Oslo last month for her struggle against Venezuela’s authoritarian regime.
