Putin Backs Trump's Peace Efforts, Criticizes Nobel Committee

Russian President Vladimir Putin voiced strong support for US President Donald Trump's diplomatic initiatives on the global stage, specifically highlighting his work on Gaza and Ukraine. The comments came during a press conference in Dushanbe on Friday, following the Nobel Committee's decision to award the 2025 Peace Prize to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado instead of Trump.

President Putin did not mince words in his assessment of the Nobel Committee, stating it has lost its "authority." He referenced past awards given to individuals who, in his view, "have done nothing for peace," claiming such decisions have caused "enormous damage" to the prize's prestige. The White House similarly criticized the choice, with a spokesman accusing the committee of placing "politics over peace."

Despite his uncertainty over whether Trump specifically deserved the award, Putin praised the US President's active role. "He really does a lot to resolve such complex crises that lasted for years, even decades," Putin stated, pointing to the Middle East as a "most striking example." He argued that the full implementation of Trump's 20-point plan for the Gaza Strip would constitute a "historic event." On the conflict in Ukraine, which has persisted for over three and a half years, Putin reaffirmed his belief that Trump is "sincerely striving" to end the war.

The Russian leader also touched upon relations with Azerbaijan, dismissing notions of a political crisis but acknowledging a "crisis of emotions" stemming from a tragic plane crash last year. On arms control, Putin indicated there is sufficient time to extend the New START treaty before its expiration, contingent on American "goodwill." He also confirmed that Russia's response to a potential US transfer of long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine would be to bolster its own air defense systems.