Title: Venezuelan Leader María Corina Machado Wins Nobel Peace Prize

OSLO, Norway — María Corina Machado, a prominent Venezuelan opposition leader, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on Friday for her efforts to promote democratic rights in Venezuela. The Nobel Committee recognized her as a key figure in uniting a divided opposition against President Nicolás Maduro's government. Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, emphasized Machado's bravery in the face of threats to her life, stating, "When authoritarians seize power, it is crucial to recognize courageous defenders of freedom who rise and resist."

Machado, who has been living in hiding for the past year, was previously a candidate for the presidency but was disqualified by the Maduro regime. Her ally, Edmundo González, took her place in the election, which was marred by widespread repression, including arrests and human rights violations. The National Electoral Council, dominated by Maduro loyalists, declared him the winner despite evidence of electoral fraud, leading to protests that resulted in over 20 deaths.

The Nobel Committee highlighted Machado's commitment to democracy, stating, "She has led the struggle for democracy in the face of ever-expanding authoritarianism in Venezuela." They noted her background in engineering and finance, as well as her founding of organizations aimed at promoting free elections and supporting vulnerable populations.

The announcement of the award was made on Friday morning, with the official ceremony scheduled for December 10 in Oslo. Frydnes addressed speculation regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s potential candidacy for the prize, asserting that the committee's decision was based solely on the principles outlined by Alfred Nobel. "We base only our decision on the work and the will of Alfred Nobel," he said.

Machado's recognition comes at a time when democracy is perceived to be in retreat globally. The Nobel Committee stated, "Democracy is a precondition for lasting peace," and expressed concern over the rise of authoritarian regimes worldwide. They noted that while more elections are being held, fewer are free and fair.

In a video call with González, Machado expressed her disbelief at receiving the award, saying, "I am in shock. I cannot believe it." González celebrated her win, calling it a well-deserved recognition of their long fight for freedom and democracy.

Machado becomes the 20th woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, which is awarded annually in Oslo, while other Nobel prizes are presented in Stockholm. Last year, the prize was awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, a group advocating against nuclear weapons. The Nobel Prize in economics will be announced on Monday, following the week’s earlier announcements in medicine, physics, chemistry, and literature.