Moldovan President declines nomination for Nobel Peace Prize, says Ukrainian prisoners deserve it more

Moldovan President Maia Sandu has expressed gratitude for being nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize but stated that Ukrainian prisoners of war are more deserving of the honour.

“Of course, I appreciate it and I am grateful that people are noticing our country, our courage, and resilience. But many individuals are nominated for this prize. Today I was thinking of the Ukrainian prisoners who have returned home from Russia - these are the people who truly deserve the Peace Prize,” Sandu said.

She emphasised that Ukrainians are making personal sacrifices to safeguard peace and security in Ukraine and across European Union countries, making them the most deserving recipients. “Above all, they deserve peace, and we hope it will come as soon as possible,” Sandu added.

Sandu was nominated for the award by Norwegian parliamentarian Arild Hermstad, leader of Norway’s Green Party, who highlighted her role in defending democracy, the rule of law, and non-violent peace efforts. Hermstad praised Sandu for standing at the forefront of democracy in Europe and opposing Russia’s ongoing attempts to destabilise former Soviet states.