Washington: Former First Lady Melania Trump could be nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, according to Florida House Republican Representative Anna Paulina Luna. The congresswoman suggested that Melania might be a “key reason” behind efforts to secure peace in Ukraine.

Several countries including Rwanda, Israel, Gabon, Azerbaijan, and Cambodia, have already put forward the name of former President Donald Trump for the prestigious prize. A number of private citizens have also backed his candidacy.

What did Luna say on Fox News?

During an appearance on Fox News on Friday, Luna, who represents Florida’s 13th congressional district and is a strong supporter of Trump, was asked about the former president’s Nobel nominations.

The host wondered aloud if “the Nobel Peace Prize committee people will actually come around” and speculated: “At some point I guess maybe they need him more than he needs them.”

Responding, Luna said: “Most certainly if the Nobel Peace Prize committee knows what's good for them they'd [do the] right thing and nominate him, but also I think that Melania Trump might also have a nomination.”

What role could Melania Trump play?

The Florida congresswoman further claimed that Melania Trump has had an important role in talks with Russia. Luna added that she believes the former First Lady will have a major influence on America’s attempts to broker a peace deal with Ukraine.

How does the Nobel Prize work?

According to the official Nobel Peace Prize website, the award can be shared by up to three people or organisations in any given year.

The Norwegian Nobel Committee is responsible for awarding the Nobel Peace Prize, and the nomination procedure is kept confidential. Only certain qualified individuals, including members of national parliaments or university faculty, are permitted to submit nominations by the yearly deadline of January 31.

The committee conducts thorough research before selecting a winner, with the final decision made by October.

What happened at the Alaska summit?

Earlier this month, during a summit in Alaska on the Ukraine conflict, Donald Trump presented Russian President Vladimir Putin with a letter written by his wife, Melania.

(With agency inputs)