'Politics over peace': White House slams Nobel Committee for brushing Trump after Machado win

Washington: The White House responded swiftly to the Nobel Committee’s decision, releasing a statement through Steven Cheung on social media. Cheung emphasised President Trump’s ongoing commitment to global peace, saying, “President Trump will continue making peace deals, ending wars, and saving lives. He has the heart of a humanitarian, and there will never be anyone like him who can move mountains with the sheer force of his will”. The statement concluded with a direct critique: “The Nobel Committee proved they place politics over peace”.

Machado Awarded for Democratic Advocacy

The 2025 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to María Corina Machado, a prominent Venezuelan opposition figure, in recognition of her efforts to promote democratic rights and achieve a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy. Jørgen Watne Frydnes, head of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, praised her as a “brave and committed champion of peace” who has united Venezuela’s opposition and resisted militarisation. The committee highlighted her adherence to nonviolence and democratic principles amid political repression.

Trump’s Claimed Diplomatic Achievements

President Trump has claimed credit for resolving multiple international conflicts, including brokering a Gaza ceasefire and mediating standoffs between nuclear-armed nations such as India and Pakistan. Despite India’s denial of U.S. involvement in the India-Pakistan ceasefire following Operation Sindoor, Trump has maintained that he ended “eight wars in nine months” and deserves the Nobel recognition. He previously stated, “If my name were Obama, I’d have a Nobel in 10 seconds,” referencing former President Barack Obama’s early receipt of the prize.

International Reactions and Diplomatic Tensions

Norwegian officials anticipated a strong reaction from the Trump administration, with some expressing concern over potential diplomatic fallout. Kirsti Bergstø of Norway’s Socialist Left party warned that the volatile and authoritarian direction of Trump’s leadership required preparedness for any response. However, the Nobel Committee remains an independent body, and the Norwegian government does not influence its decisions.