Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado met with former President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday to discuss the future of Venezuela, but did not respond to reporters' questions regarding whether she gifted her Nobel Prize to Trump. The visit occurred despite Trump's past expressions of doubt regarding Machado's credibility to assume leadership in Venezuela following a U.S. military operation that captured then-President Nicolás Maduro.

Machado's appearance at the White House involved some personal risk, as her location had been largely unknown since she left Venezuela last year after a brief detention in Caracas. Following a private meeting with Trump, Machado greeted supporters gathered near the White House gates, telling them, "We can count on President Trump." Some supporters briefly chanted, "Thank you, Trump," but Machado did not elaborate further on the meeting's specifics.

Trump's willingness to meet with Machado contrasts with his previous statements questioning her legitimacy and his stated commitment to democratic rule in Venezuela. He has also indicated a willingness to collaborate with acting President Delcy Rodríguez, who served as Maduro's second-in-command. Rodríguez, along with other members of Maduro's inner circle, continues to manage day-to-day government operations. She delivered her first state of the union address during Machado's visit.

The situation in Venezuela remains complex, with multiple actors vying for power and influence. The U.S. government's stance has shifted over time, reflecting the challenges of navigating the political landscape in the country. The future of Venezuela remains uncertain, with the outcome dependent on both internal dynamics and external pressures.