President Donald Trump on Wednesday asserted that he should be awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for his role in ending eight international conflicts, while expressing skepticism that the Norwegian Nobel Committee would recognize his efforts. The committee is scheduled to announce the prize recipient on Friday.
Trump cites diplomatic achievements as justification for Nobel consideration
In remarks to reporters at the White House, Trump stated, “I settled eight wars, another one is coming; I got all the hostages back. I did things that nobody else has ever done.” He added, “I don’t know what their decision is going to be. They have a reputation for maybe not giving it to people like me.”
The president also referenced an indirect acknowledgment of his work, noting that María Corina Machado of Venezuela presented him with a Nobel Peace Prize figurine during a meeting. “Such a wonderful gesture of mutual respect,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post. The Nobel Institute clarified that once a prize is announced, it cannot be transferred or revoked, and the decision is final.
Committee emphasizes impartial selection process
The Norwegian Nobel Committee reiterated that its decisions are based solely on the criteria set by Alfred Nobel. Committee member Olav Njølstad stated, “We receive thousands of letters every year from people advocating for their preferred candidates. Our work is guided only by the will of Alfred Nobel and the merits of the nominees.”
Nominations for the 2026 prize were eligible through January 31, shortly after Trump began his second term. The committee did not confirm whether Trump was among the nominees. The Nobel Peace Prize has historically recognized figures such as Malala Yousafzai, Nelson Mandela, and the European Union, among others.