Venezuela's Machado to be awarded peace prize by Nobel Institute in Oslo

Maria Corina Machado, the Venezuelan opposition leader currently in hiding, has confirmed her plans to travel to Oslo to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, according to the head of the Nobel Institute.

"I spoke with Machado on Friday evening, and she has confirmed her attendance at the Oslo ceremony," stated Kristian Berg Harpviken. "Due to security concerns, we cannot disclose the specific date or details of her arrival," he added.

Last month, Venezuela's attorney general, Tarek William Saab, warned that Machado would be regarded as a "fugitive" if she left the country to accept the award, which was announced on October 10. The official Nobel Peace Prize presentation is scheduled for Wednesday in Oslo.

Venezuelan opposition activity has been largely subdued following the detention of approximately 2,400 people during protests after President Nicolas Maduro's reelection in July 2024. Machado has alleged that the election was rigged, a claim supported by numerous international observers.

Having been in hiding since August 2024, Machado is known for her support of US President Donald Trump and aligns with Washington's characterization of Maduro as leading a drug cartel. The Nobel laureate has expressed approval of an increased US military presence in the region, which has included strikes targeting alleged drug shipments.

Author: Aiden Foster