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Trump Attacks Norway Over Nobel Peace Prize Award

US President Donald Trump has criticized Norway's decision to award the Nobel Peace Prize to Navi Pillay, a former International Criminal Court judge, claiming unfamiliarity with the recipient during a campaign rally.

LSN World News · 10 October 2026

Trump Attacks Norway Over Nobel Peace Prize Award

Donald Trump has publicly criticized Norway over its selection of Navi Pillay as the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, describing the decision as a stain on the country. Speaking at a campaign rally, the US president stated he had never heard of Pillay, who served as a judge at the International Criminal Court and previously held the position of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

The Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded Pillay the prestigious prize in recognition of her efforts to advance human rights and justice. Pillay, a South African legal expert, has spent decades advocating for accountability in conflict situations and strengthening international criminal justice mechanisms.

Trump's comments mark a notable departure from traditional diplomatic protocol, as sitting US presidents typically refrain from publicly attacking the decisions of friendly nations regarding major international honors. The remarks come amid ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and various international institutions.

The Nobel Peace Prize, established by Swedish industrialist Alfred Nobel's will, is awarded annually to individuals or organizations deemed to have made outstanding contributions to peace. Norway's Nobel Committee maintains independence in its selection process, which typically draws global attention and occasional controversy depending on the recipient chosen.