WASHINGTON: Former President Donald Trump revealed on Thursday that he looks forward to meeting Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado next week, expressing that it would be a “great honor” if she were to give him her Nobel Peace Prize. Speaking with Fox News host Sean Hannity, Trump noted, “I understand she’s coming in next week sometime, and I look forward to saying hello to her.”

Trump's comments on Machado, who won the prestigious award last October, come amid discussions about Venezuela's political future following the ousting of dictator Nicolas Maduro. In a recent interview, Trump shared his uncertainty about Machado's ability to lead given the current support she faces within Venezuela. “I’m not sure she has enough support in Venezuela,” Trump stated, highlighting the precarious political climate.

In an interesting turn, Machado has indicated her willingness to present her Nobel Prize to Trump. “I’ve heard that she wants to do that,” he remarked about the potential gesture. This overture aligns with Machado's aspirations to lead a transitional government alongside Edmundo González, who the United States recognizes as the legitimate winner of Venezuela's last presidential election.

Reflecting on her recent honor, Machado dedicated her Nobel Peace Prize to Trump and expressed a desire to return to Venezuela as quickly as possible. Her anticipated reception of Trump signifies an important intersection between international diplomacy and Venezuelan political aspirations. This story is developing, and updates are expected in the coming days.