White House criticizes Nobel Committee over Trump snub
The White House has sharply criticized the Norwegian Nobel Committee following the announcement that the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize would go to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado and not to former U.S. President Donald Trump. Voices within Trump’s administration accused the committee of placing politics over peace in its decision.
Steven Cheung, the White House communications director, asserted that the Nobel Committee “proved they place politics over peace.” He defended Trump’s global diplomatic efforts, saying the former president “will continue making peace deals, ending wars, and saving lives” and described him as someone who “can move mountains with the sheer force of his will.” Richard Grenell, Trump’s special envoy, also criticized the committee, declaring that “The Nobel Prize died years ago.”
Trump’s allies have highlighted his role in negotiating a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, among other diplomatic efforts, as justification for a Nobel prize. Some critics argue, however, that the committee’s emphasis on democracy and human rights as criteria may reflect a more holistic approach beyond just mediation efforts.
On the other side, the Nobel Committee defended its decision. Its chair, Jørgen Watne Frydnes, noted that decisions are based strictly on the work and principles set out by Alfred Nobel, not on public pressure or campaigning. He stressed that the committee has seen many campaigns over the years and emphasized their commitment to integrity.
Despite the White House backlash, Machado’s selection also drew praise from international figures. Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged Trump’s peace efforts while indirectly criticizing the decision to exclude him from the prize. Meanwhile, Machado dedicated her award to the Venezuelan people and acknowledged Trump’s support for her movement in Venezuela.
The dispute shines a spotlight on competing definitions of peace and diplomacy. The White House insists the decision was a political slight, while the Nobel Committee maintains its decisions are grounded in broader criteria. The debate may now shift toward how global peace efforts are recognized and rewarded under differing standards.
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