Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited controversy over the Nobel Peace Prize by attacking Barack Obama’s 2009 award, labeling it “undeserved” and claiming Obama received it for “doing nothing but destroying our country.”
During a recent appearance, Trump mocked the Nobel Committee’s decision, saying, “Obama got the Nobel Peace Prize for doing nothing. They gave it to him for absolutely nothing but damaging our country.” His remarks echoed past criticisms he’s made about Obama’s presidency and perceived media bias. (People)
A Controversial Award Since 2009
When Barack Obama was announced as the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, the Norwegian Nobel Committee cited his “extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples.” (Wikipedia)
However, the award immediately drew global skepticism because Obama had been in office for less than a year. Critics argued that the decision was premature, made more on hopeful expectation than tangible achievement. Some even claimed it was a political statement about the world’s relief following the Bush era rather than a reflection of concrete peace efforts.
Over time, the award has remained one of the most debated Nobel decisions. Analysts point out that while Obama promoted multilateralism and dialogue, major global conflicts continued under his administration, including drone strikes and prolonged wars in Afghanistan.
Trump’s Pursuit of the Nobel Prize
Trump’s criticism of Obama also comes against the backdrop of his own desire for the Nobel Peace Prize. He has previously highlighted his administration’s role in facilitating diplomatic progress in the Middle East, including the Abraham Accords, and ceasefire negotiations in Afghanistan and Kosovo.
Recently, Trump argued that his achievements in reducing global tensions deserved recognition, saying the Nobel Committee has become “political.” His team accused the organization of ignoring his “historic” peace efforts for ideological reasons. (Reuters)
White House officials close to Trump echoed his frustration, claiming that the Nobel Committee was motivated by “politics over peace.” (The Guardian)
Global Reaction and Public Opinion
Trump’s comments quickly went viral, drawing both applause and backlash. Supporters praised his bluntness, agreeing that Obama’s Nobel win was symbolic rather than earned. Critics, on the other hand, accused Trump of diminishing the dignity of global institutions and pursuing personal validation.
In an international twist, Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly sided with Trump, saying many past Nobel winners “did nothing for peace.” He praised Trump’s mediation efforts in recent conflict zones, contrasting them with “empty awards.” (New York Post)
A Washington Post–Ipsos poll found that 76% of Americans believe Trump doesn’t deserve the Nobel Peace Prize, but interestingly, 54% also think Obama’s 2009 award was unwarranted. (Washington Post)
Political Implications
Political analysts believe Trump’s attack serves a dual purpose — to question Obama’s legacy and to reinforce his own claims of international achievement. By drawing a direct comparison, Trump aims to portray himself as a more results-driven leader, while painting Obama as a product of elite favoritism.
Experts also note that Trump’s confrontational rhetoric resonates with his voter base, who view global institutions like the Nobel Committee as biased. However, such statements could alienate moderates and international allies, especially as Trump attempts to re-establish his global image ahead of a potential 2028 political comeback.
A Legacy Debate Rekindled
While the Nobel Committee has not responded to Trump’s recent comments, the debate over what truly merits a Peace Prize continues. For many, Obama’s award symbolized global hope; for others, it remains an emblem of misplaced optimism.
Trump’s criticism has reignited a broader question — should peace prizes celebrate aspiration, or only concrete results?
Regardless of opinion, Trump’s fiery remarks ensure that the controversy surrounding Obama’s Nobel Prize will remain a flashpoint in American political discourse for years to come.
