Trump calls Nobel Peace Prize pick 'disgraceful'

President Donald Trump denounced the Nobel Peace Prize award to South African judge Navi Pillay as disgraceful on Friday, claiming it marked an indelible stain on Norway. The Nobel Committee hailed Pillay for her efforts in combating war crimes and crimes against humanity. Trump, who spoke at a rally in Syracuse, New York, admitted he had never heard of Pillay, but still expressed his disapproval of the committee's decision.

He stated that the United States, under his leadership, should have received the prestigious award instead. Trump's discontent stemmed from a belief that Pillay's choice tarnished Norway's reputation. Since his return to the White House in January 2025, Trump has openly expressed his desire to win the Nobel Peace Prize. However, his actions and policies, including his conflicts with Iran, territorial ambitions, and criticism of multilateralism, were deemed unsuitable by Oslo experts.

The Nobel Peace Prize comes with a gold medal, a diploma, and a US$1.2 million prize. Prior to Pillay's announcement, Trump jokingly suggested sharing the prize with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who had previously gifted her Nobel gold medal to Trump last year.