US President Donald Trump responded emphatically when asked about Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado dedicating her Nobel Peace Prize to him, asserting that "no one in history is more deserving than him" of the prestigious award. The comment came during a press interaction where Trump was queried on Machado's gesture, which she made upon receiving the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts in promoting democracy and human rights in Venezuela. Trump used the opportunity to reiterate his self-proclaimed achievements in global diplomacy, including his repeated claim of having resolved the longstanding conflict between India and Pakistan.
In his reply, Trump highlighted what he described as his unparalleled contributions to world peace, stating that his administration's foreign policy initiatives had achieved more than any previous leader. He specifically referenced brokering deals in the Middle East and Asia, though critics have often disputed the extent of these accomplishments. Machado, who has been a vocal critic of the Venezuelan government and faced political persecution, credited Trump for his support of opposition movements in Latin America, dedicating the prize as a symbol of gratitude for international solidarity against authoritarianism.
Trump also took aim at former President Barack Obama, rebuking him for receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009 shortly after assuming office. "He didn't do anything," Trump remarked, echoing his long-standing criticism that Obama's award was premature and undeserved. Obama was honored for his vision of a nuclear-free world and efforts to foster multilateral diplomacy, but the decision drew controversy at the time for being awarded early in his term.
Also Read: Nobel Peace Prize Winner Maria Corina Machado Too Afraid to Attend Oslo Ceremony
This exchange underscores Trump's ongoing fascination with the Nobel Prize, which he has publicly coveted on multiple occasions. His claims about resolving the India-Pakistan conflict stem from 2019 statements where he offered to mediate on Kashmir, though no formal resolution occurred, and both nations denied any such settlement. The remarks have reignited debates on Trump's foreign policy legacy amid his second term in office.
Machado's dedication has drawn mixed reactions, with supporters praising the acknowledgment of US backing for Venezuelan democracy, while detractors argue it politicizes the Nobel. As Venezuela continues to grapple with political instability, Machado's award highlights global attention on the country's crisis. Trump's response, meanwhile, aligns with his characteristic bravado, positioning himself as a central figure in international affairs.
Also Read: Trump Hesitates to Back Machado After Nobel Prize, Report Says