US President Donald Trump has downplayed suggestions he wants to win the Nobel Peace Prize after weeks of speculation.
I have nothing to say about it, Trump told CBS News, the BBC's US partner. All I can do is put out wars. The president added: I don't seek attention. I just want to save lives.
The comments appear to contradict his earlier statements regarding the prestigious accolade, asserting he should be recognized for his involvement in ending various conflicts.
During the same interview, Trump expressed his commitment to securing a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, stating, Something is going to happen. We are going to get it done.
Trump is expected to communicate with pro-Ukraine European leaders meeting in Paris shortly. His special envoy, Steve Witkoff, will attend the meeting in person.
The winner of the Nobel Peace Prize is announced by the Norwegian Nobel Committee on October 10. Four previous US presidents, including Trump's political opponent Barack Obama, have received the honor.
Earlier this year, Trump expressed his feelings of being overlooked, stating, They will never give me a Nobel Peace Prize. I deserve it, but they will never give it. His press secretary also reinforced this sentiment, suggesting it was time for Trump to receive the award.
Several members of his administration have echoed these sentiments, with Witkoff dubbing him the single finest Nobel candidate due to his game-changing work.
The Nobel panel consists of five members appointed by the Norwegian parliament, with Trump reportedly discussing his nomination with Norwegian Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg.
Trump has received nominations from several countries, including Israel and Pakistan, claiming credit for reducing tensions between Pakistan and India earlier this year.
This is one of several conflicts that Trump has claimed to have ended. However, analysts have scrutinized these claims, noting the lasting stability of these resolutions is yet to be established. BBC Verify has delved into Trump's involvement in calming several conflicts, including those involving Israel and Iran.