OSLO: Chairman of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, Jørgen Watne, has responded to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated claims that he deserved the Nobel Peace Prize and that being overlooked was an “insult to America.”
Speaking after the announcement of this year’s Nobel Peace Prize, Watne said the committee has witnessed many such campaigns throughout its long history. “Every year, we receive thousands of letters from people around the world expressing their opinions on who should be honoured for peace,” he stated.
Explaining the selection process, the chairman said that the committee meets in a room adorned with portraits of all past laureates — individuals who symbolize courage and integrity. “It is in this spirit that we make our decisions, guided solely by Alfred Nobel’s vision and his will,” he added.
Earlier, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has been awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, the Norwegian Nobel Committee announced Friday, honoring her tireless efforts to promote democratic rights and peaceful political transition in Venezuela.
The 58-year-old industrial engineer, currently living in hiding, has long been a prominent figure in Venezuela’s opposition movement. Despite being barred from running in the 2024 presidential election by the Maduro-controlled courts, Machado has continued to campaign for free elections, human rights, and the rule of law in a country gripped by political repression.
“We base our decision only on the work and the will of Alfred Nobel,” said Jorgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, during the announcement at the Nobel Institute in Oslo. “Maria Corina Machado represents courage, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of peace through democratic means.”
Venezuelan democracy leader Maria Corina Machado, who won the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, has dedicated her award to the people of Venezuela and former U.S. President Donald Trump.
In her statement, Machado said the award represents global recognition of the Venezuelan people’s long struggle for freedom. “We are standing on the verge of victory,” she said, adding that Venezuela needs the continued support of President Trump, the American people, and democratic forces worldwide to achieve lasting democracy.
“I dedicate this award to the suffering people of Venezuela and to President Trump for his decisive support of our cause,” she added.
