Ukraine is intensifying its efforts to gain support from former U.S. President Donald Trump by nominating him for the Nobel Peace Prize. This strategy comes as the country seeks to persuade Trump to exert more pressure on Russia to negotiate a peace agreement. During a recent briefing, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy suggested that if Trump can facilitate a ceasefire, he deserves the prestigious award. The announcement of this year’s Nobel winner is expected shortly, which adds urgency to Ukraine’s lobbying approach.
Zelenskiy stated, “If Trump gives the world – above all, the Ukrainian people – the chance for such a ceasefire, then yes, he should be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.” His comments were made public just two days before the announcement of this year’s laureate. The Ukrainian parliament is backing this initiative, believing that showing support for Trump is vital for maintaining a strong partnership with the United States.
The push for Trump’s nomination reflects Ukraine’s ongoing struggle to secure military aid. Specifically, Tomahawk missiles are high on Kyiv’s wishlist, as they believe these weapons could significantly undermine Russian capabilities. Trump, who has previously expressed frustration with Vladimir Putin, has indicated he is open to supplying such weaponry to Ukraine.
Trump has asserted his claim to the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his role in various peace initiatives, including what he described as a truce between India and Pakistan, a claim that India has disputed. Recently, a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza was announced under a Trump-led initiative, further fueling his narrative of being a peacemaker.
The nomination effort is not solely a Ukrainian endeavor. On the same day, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te remarked that Trump should be honored if he can persuade China to refrain from using force against Taiwan. This illustrates a broader trend of nations leveraging Trump’s influence to achieve their geopolitical objectives.
Ukrainian lawmakers have submitted a motion urging their colleagues to support Trump’s Nobel nomination, emphasizing that it is essential to demonstrate unwavering loyalty to their strategic partner. Lawmaker Anna Skorokhod articulated this sentiment, stating, “If we can’t show today that Ukraine and the Ukrainian parliament absolutely and totally support Donald Trump and his peace plans, then what can we talk about?”
Nominations for the Nobel prizes close on January 31, with committee members able to propose candidates until their first meeting in February. As the deadline approaches, Ukraine’s unique lobbying strategy underscores its ongoing quest for assistance and the complexities of international relations in the current geopolitical landscape.
