The saga of Nobel Peace Prize. How it became a center of Geopolitics.

The Nobel Peace Prize, one of the most respected global honors, became a focal point of geopolitics due to a world leader occupying the top position in the world’s most powerful country: Donald Trump. Trump and his associates were frequently seen advocating for the prize, particularly after India’s strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and the subsequent damage to Pakistani airfields and aircraft over a two-day conflict. India rejected Trumps mediation in getting ceasefire, which he made an issue as he wanted India's support for Nobel Peace Prize.

This scenario highlighted a remarkable moment in the 21st century, where a superpower appeared to influence conflicts and resolutions with the aim of securing an award for one individual. Nevertheless, the headlines focused on the fact that despite multiple nominations, Donald Trump did not receive the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. The award was instead given to María Corina Machado, a Venezuelan opposition leader, recognized for her tireless work promoting democratic rights and her efforts toward a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy in Venezuela.

Who Nominated Donald Trump?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: In July 2025, Netanyahu nominated Trump, praising his leadership in facilitating peace agreements between Israel and Arab nations, including the Abraham Accords.

Government of Pakistan: In June 2025, Pakistan's government nominated Trump, it was expected as their begging bowl gets filled (means, loans). Pakistan government said they acknowledge Trumps role in mediating peace talks and his efforts toward reducing tensions in South Asia.

Israeli Hostages Families Forum: This group called on the Nobel Prize committee to award Trump the peace prize for his "unwavering commitment and extraordinary leadership" in seeking a deal to bring home hostages taken by Hamas.

Malta's Foreign Minister Ian Borg: In October 2025, Borg nominated Trump, citing his role in facilitating peace agreements, specifically between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and his efforts toward ending conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.

Nobel Peace Prize: Selection Process and Criteria

The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded by the Norwegian Nobel Committee, a five-member body appointed by the Norwegian Parliament (Storting). The selection process is as follows:

Nomination: Qualified individuals and organizations, including members of national assemblies, university professors, and previous laureates, can nominate candidates.

Review and Shortlisting: The committee reviews nominations and prepares a shortlist of candidates.

Adviser Review: Permanent advisers and international experts prepare individual reports on the shortlisted candidates.

Decision: The committee makes a final decision, typically in mid-September, and announces the laureate in early October.

The prize is awarded to individuals or organizations that have done "the most or the best work for fraternity between nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses," as stipulated in Alfred Nobel's will.

Multiple news outlets also hinted that Trump under his ego might impose sanctions on Norway or try to damage the relations with Norway in some way. Venezuelan Opposition Leader María Corina Machado's upon receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, expressed shock and gratitude. She acknowledged Trump's support for Venezuelan democracy and stated that she was accepting the award in honor of his contributions.

Media and Political Reactions:

White House Response: The White House expressed disappointment over the Nobel Committee's decision, with Communications Director Steven Cheung stating that the committee "places politics over peace."

Russian President Vladimir Putin's Remarks: During a summit in Tajikistan, President Putin criticized the Nobel Peace Prize committee for awarding the honor to individuals he claimed "did nothing for peace." He praised Trump for his role in brokering a cease-fire deal in Gaza, calling the agreement a potentially “historic” achievement.

Criticism from Media Figures: Columnist Michael Goodwin argued that Trump's efforts to resolve global conflicts, particularly in the Middle East, deserved greater recognition than that offered by the Nobel Peace Prize committee.

Public and Social Media Reactions

Memes and Satire: Social media platforms were flooded with memes and satirical content following the announcement. Users humorously reacted to Trump's loss, turning the event into a viral "memefest."

Public Sentiment: A segment on "Saturday Night Live" featured comedian Colin Jost mocking Trump's failure to secure the Nobel Peace Prize, highlighting the public's mixed reactions through satire.