White House Slams Nobel Committee for ‘Putting Politics Before Peace’ After Trump Snub

White House Criticizes Nobel Committee After Trump Snub; Prize Awarded to Venezuela’s Maria Corina Machado.

The White House expressed sharp criticism after the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Maria Corina Machado, Venezuela’s opposition leader, calling the decision “politics over peace.” U.S. President Donald Trump, who had been widely expected to contend for the prize for his role in brokering peace deals and ending “eight wars,” was passed over in favor of Machado.

Known as Venezuela’s “Iron Lady” for her persistent fight for democratic rights, Machado was recognized by the Norwegian Nobel Committee for her “tireless work in promoting democracy” and her “struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.” She has faced imprisonment, threats, and political persecution while openly challenging President Nicolás Maduro. Machado also featured on Time Magazine’s 2025 ‘100 Most Influential People’ list.

White House spokesperson Steven Cheung defended Trump’s record, stating,

“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.”

Ahead of the announcement, Trump criticized his predecessor Barack Obama, saying he received the Nobel Peace Prize for “doing nothing” and “destroying our country.” Trump highlighted his own efforts in brokering peace in Gaza and ending several conflicts, including the May India-Pakistan military tensions, though Indian authorities have denied any third-party intervention.

While Pakistan’s leadership publicly supported Trump’s Nobel consideration, Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged Trump’s efforts in ending the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

The Nobel Committee praised Machado as a “courageous and steadfast advocate for peace,” honoring her role in keeping democracy alive in Venezuela despite authoritarian repression. Her recognition underscores the global significance of the fight for democratic rights and political freedom.