Political leaders in Norway are reacting strongly to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado’s decision to gift her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Donald Trump. They call this move “absurd,” suggesting that Trump is merely seeking attention by taking credit for others’ accomplishments.
Machado presented the medal to Trump during a visit to the White House, stating it was a gesture of gratitude for his commitment to freedom in Venezuela. In response, Trump boasted on social media that she honored him for his work, calling it a “wonderful gesture of mutual respect.”
The Nobel Peace Center quickly clarified that while a medal can be handed over, the title of Nobel laureate cannot be transferred. This was emphasized when Machado’s plans first surfaced, with the Norwegian Nobel Committee stating that the prize cannot be revoked or shared.
Machado received her award last month in Oslo after a secretive journey from Venezuela. The Nobel committee recognized her long fight for democracy against Nicolás Maduro’s oppressive regime. Ironically, Maduro remains in power despite Trump’s administration taking aggressive stances against the Venezuelan government.
Norwegian political figures expressed concern. Kirsti Bergstø, from the Socialist Left party, said the act of giving away the prize is nonsensical. She highlighted Trump’s past controversial comments, including threats to invade Greenland, as reasons against his suitability for the prize.
Trygve Slagsvold Vedum, leader of the Centre party, further criticized Trump, remarking that his acceptance of the medal reflects his desire for glory at the expense of others. Raymond Johansen, a former mayor of Oslo, expressed embarrassment over the situation, warning it could harm the reputation of the Nobel Prize and its committee.
This incident raises questions about the future of the Nobel Peace Prize. The award has faced increasing politization. Johansen warned that if this trend continues, it may risk becoming an “anti-peace prize.”
Interestingly, social media buzzes with mixed reactions. Some users support Machado, seeing her gesture as a brave step towards recognizing global leaders who back democracy. Others, however, echo the sentiments of Norwegian leaders, expressing disbelief and disappointment.
As the world watches, the Nobel committee remains silent, emphasizing their independence from the Norwegian government. This allows space for future discussions about the integrity and impact of prestigious awards like the Nobel Peace Prize.
For more insights on global political reactions, you can check this report from BBC News.
