Why Trump did not receive the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize is explained by the Nobel committee.

The Norwegian Nobel Committee has defended its choice to not include U.S. President Donald Trump in the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, claiming that the prize is granted only on the basis of merit and not in response to pressure from the media or politics.

The head of the Norwegian Nobel Committee stated in an official statement that Alfred Nobel’s original ideas still serve as the basis for the selection process for the Peace Prize, which is still independent. The chair of the committee explained, “We base our decisions on merit, not campaigns or public appeals.”

Nominations for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize reportedly ended on January 31, a few days after Trump was sworn in on January 20. Due to this schedule, this year’s discussions did not take into account his most recent peace initiatives, including as the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

Trump’s reward campaign backfires

Trump’s public Nobel Prize campaign may have backfired, according to analysts.

According to Theo Zeno, a scholar at the Henry Jackson Society, “the committee wants to protect its independence from political influence.” “The idea that Trump was attempting to exert pressure on the process was probably strengthened by his open lobbying.”

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Experts also point out that the Nobel Committee hardly ever changes its choice in response to last-minute agreements or political developments.

Machado is the recipient of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.

María Corina Machado, an opposition activist from Venezuela, was awarded this year’s Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to advance democracy and human rights in her country and her nonviolent fight against dictatorship.

Giving Machado the medal, according to observers, shows support for democratic movements around the world and a rejection of strongman or populist politics.

This decision represents a symbolic blow for Trump, who has long aimed for international respect for his diplomatic endeavors.

Nottingham Trent University political expert Matthew Mukhefi Ashton called it “a calculated move” by the committee to balance sentiment around the world. He clarified, “The committee simultaneously appeals to Trump’s supporters and critics by honoring Machado.”

Jürgen Watane-Friedens, the head of the Nobel Committee, stressed that the choice is in accordance with “Alfred Nobel’s wishes and the true standards of peace.”

Trump’s interest in the Nobel Peace Prize began in 2009, when Barack Obama, his political opponent, was awarded the prize soon after he took office. Trump later called this decision “elitist and unfair.”

Experts claim the rift is still present in this year’s rejection. But according to some analysts, Trump might have another chance to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2026 if his peace initiatives, especially in the Middle East, turn out to be sustainable.