Trump reportedly called Norwegian minister ‘out of the blue' to ask about Nobel prize
The Norwegian outlet Dagens Næringsliv, citing unnamed sources, reported: 'Out of the blue, while finance minister Jens Stoltenberg was walking down the street in Oslo, Donald Trump called … He wanted the Nobel prize – and to discuss tariffs.'
The outlet added that it was not the first time that Trump had raised the question of a Nobel peace prize nomination to Stoltenberg.
In a statement to Reuters, Stoltenberg, the former Nato secretary-general, said the call focused on tariffs and economic cooperation ahead of Trump's call with Jonas Støre, the Norwegian prime minister.
'I will not go into further detail about the content of the conversation,' Stoltenberg said, adding that several White House officials including the treasury secretary, Scott Bessent, and US trade representative, Jamieson Greer, were on the call.
Each year, the five-member Norwegian Nobel committee reviews hundreds of candidates before choosing laureates. The committee members are appointed by Norway's parliament according to the will of Alfred Nobel, a 19-century Swedish industrialist. Laureates are announced in October.
Trump has previously complained multiple times about not receiving the Nobel peace prize, an award which four of his predecessors, including Barack Obama, have received.
In his most recent tirade, Trump took to Truth Social in June, saying: 'No, I won't get a Nobel Peace Prize no matter what I do, including Russia/Ukraine, and Israel/Iran, whatever those outcomes may be, but the people know, and that's all that matters to me!'
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The Independent
19 minutes ago
- The Independent
Ukraine needs long-term security guarantees, Taoiseach says
International borders must not be changed by force, the Taoiseach has said, ahead of a meeting between the presidents of the United States and Ukraine. Micheal Martin attended a virtual leaders' meeting of the so-called 'coalition of the willing' in support of Ukraine on Sunday. The call was convened by Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. On Monday, Volodymyr Zelensky is meeting Donald Trump with several EU leaders, including Sir Keir, also travelling to Washington DC in a show of solidarity with the Ukrainian president. Mr Martin, who will not be in Washington, said he had assured Mr Zelensky on Sunday that Ireland will 'continue to steadfastly support Ukraine'. EU leaders have agreed that sanctions and wider economic measures 'will be reinforced' if Russia continues its military action. The Taoiseach also said that he believes Ukraine needs 'long-term security guarantees'. Speaking after Sunday's online conference, Mr Martin said: 'I welcomed the opportunity to join other European leaders today to discuss developments on ending the war in Ukraine. 'We had a very useful engagement with President Zelensky as he prepares to meet with President Trump tomorrow in Washington. 'I welcome the initiative by President Trump to seek the ending of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine. Ireland, together with our European partners, continues to contribute to these efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace for Ukraine.' The meeting of European leaders follows the US president's summit with Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. Mr Martin said it is 'essential that Ukraine is a full participant' in any discussions regarding its future. He said: 'I therefore welcome that President Zelensky will meet with President Trump in Washington tomorrow, together with other European leaders. Mr Martin said he stressed that international law and principles of independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity need to be respected for security in the region. 'It will be up to Ukraine to make decisions on its territory. International borders must not be changed by force. 'I fully agree that Ukraine needs strong, credible, long-term security guarantees. This will mean sustained support from Europe, the United States and other partners. 'Ireland stands ready to play our part. Earlier this year we committed to providing non-lethal military support to Ukraine and we will look to do more. 'At today's meeting, I also reiterated Ireland's readiness to contribute to any peacekeeping force that is in line with the UN Charter.' The Taoiseach said Ireland will also continue to support Ukraine's EU membership ambitions, adding that Russia 'cannot have a veto' on the matter. 'Our joint efforts for peace should be combined with firm and co-ordinated pressure on Russia to agree to a ceasefire and engage seriously with negotiations on a just and lasting peace. 'We agreed today that sanctions and wider economic measures will be reinforced if Russia does not stop the killing. 'The human dimension and accountability must also be at the centre of a just and lasting peace for Ukraine. 'Russia must urgently return Ukrainian children who they have abducted as well as prisoners of war and civilians being held unlawfully.'
Telegraph
19 minutes ago
- Telegraph
Five things to know before you board a SeaDream Yacht Club ship
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Every Caribbean cruise also includes a stop for uniformed crew to serve champagne and caviar from surfboards in the lapping waves just off a beach. Brynestad, a 71-year-old vegan whose empire also includes restaurants, hotels, a winery and a glassware maker, is still very much involved in SeaDream. A third, new-build ship was announced in 2019 and although that plan fell through, the line has confirmed it remains an ambition. 1. Where does it cruise? Both ships spend most of their time in the Mediterranean between April and October and the Caribbean the rest of the year. In summer, SeaDream I and II visit destinations such as the Greek Isles, the Amalfi Coast, the French and Italian Rivieras, Croatia and smaller islands such as Corsica and Hydra. In the Med, SeaDream also offers special wine cruises that include expert tastings and visits to vineyards. From 2025, the line is back in Northern Europe, with voyages to the British Isles, Norwegian fjords and overnights in 24-hour daylight above the Arctic Circle. If that leaves you wanting more, SeaDream is introducing grand voyages – two in 2025 and six the following year – ranging from 21 to 35 days, including one that sails along the Corinth Canal in Greece. The longest cruise, in November 2026, heads from Italy to Barbados, while another epic voyage earlier in the year will take 34 days to cross the Atlantic in the other direction from Palm Beach, Florida, to Oslo via ports such as Lisbon, Rotterdam and Copenhagen. In winter, SeaDream focuses on Caribbean destinations including the millionaires' playground of St Barts and the British and US Virgin Islands, as well as Barbados and less-travelled areas of the Bahamas. One highlight is the tiny island of Jost Van Dyke, population 300, where cruisers can be dropped at night to visit Foxy's or the Soggy Dollar Bar, followed the next day by champagne in the surf and a beach barbecue. When possible, crew will deploy an inflatable 23ft-long water slide from the pool deck directly into the sea – even in Norwegian waters for daredevils who want to test their endurance by plunging into chilly fjords. The swimming platform can also be used in the middle of the Atlantic when the ships transfer between the US and Europe. 2. Who does it appeal to? The vibe on SeaDream is casual elegance, with attentive service from the 95 crew and the freedom to do as much or as little as you want each day. Passengers typically range in age from their 30s to the late 70s with a strong base of couples, active pensioners and honeymooners. For romantics, crew will arrange an overnight double bed on deck strewn with rose petals. Other couples can sleep on Balinese beds at the stern – but, wherever they rest, all passengers receive personalised pyjamas with their name sewn on the pocket. Vegans can enjoy what's claimed to be the biggest plant-based menu at sea, though all tastes are well catered for in the range of food that extends from 24-hour room service to six-course dinner menus. Most meals are al fresco, with tables spread over three decks, and there is an opulent dining room if the weather turns. Dress code is relaxed, even in the evenings – think what you would wear on a private yacht. As well as the onboard jet-skis, kayaks and floating trampolines, active cruisers have the use of mountain bikes ashore or can join hikes and walking tours. Children aged one and above are welcome on the ships but there are no special facilities. 3. The SeaDream fleet SeaDream I and SeaDream II (112 passengers) The two ships are virtually identical with only the geekiest of cruisers able to tell them apart. Part of the appeal to regular customers is that they can choose either yacht and still feel at home. Built in the mid-Eighties, the sisters have been given multi-million-pound renovations with updated staterooms, teak decks and improved open-air spaces. Because of their size, none of the rooms have balconies but there is plenty of outdoor space for everyone from the Top of the Yacht bar, to the pool sunbathing area. With only five passenger decks, few people use the solitary lift. As well as the main lounge, holidaymakers can relax in the small spa or have a go on the virtual golf range. Drinks and tips are included in the fare, while nightly entertainment is provided by a piano player, singer and guitarist. Sails to: Europe, the Caribbean and transatlantic 4. Accessibility Both ships have a lift and offer adapted staterooms but accessibility is limited because of the small size of the yachts and the destinations they visit. Some beach landings are made by rigid inflatable zodiac boats. 5. Loyalty scheme After their first voyage, passengers automatically become members of the SeaDream Club reward programme which offers savings, on-board perks and advance notice of new itineraries. Insider tips Sweet dreams Once on board, get your request in early if you'd like to try the very popular romantic bed made up at night on deck at the front of the ship. Go with the flow Don't over-plan your days – meals are open for long periods with free seating and no fixed timing, but the early arrivals bag the best tables. Forget formal wear 'Yacht casual' is the norm even at dinner – but bring your swimsuit. Even though the pool is small, there might be a chance to try the water slide and the marina toys during your cruise Talk to the crew Most have been with SeaDream for years and have some great stories to tell, as well as valuable insider tips. 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Daily Mail
an hour ago
- Daily Mail
Zelensky says giving up land for peace could be 'impossible' as Trump rages at 'fake news' over his showdown with Putin - as Europe's leaders head to the White House
Volodymyr Zelensky has said giving up land for peace in a future agreement with Russia could be 'impossible'. Speaking in Brussels today, the Ukrainian president insisted that his country's constitution made it 'impossible to give up territory or trade land'. But he went on to say: 'Since the territorial issue is so important, it should be discussed only by the leaders of Ukraine and Russia at a trilateral meeting.' 'We need real negotiations, which means we can start where the front line is now,' Zelensky said, adding that European leaders supported this. It comes as US president Donald Trump appears poised to urge the Ukrainian leader to agree to a Russian land grab of his country's territory. Russian president Vladimir Putin is said to have demanded full control of Donetsk and Luhansk - two occupied Ukrainian regions - as a condition for ending the war. Zelensky was speaking ahead of a virtual meeting with European leaders and before he travels to Washington to meet with Donald Trump following the US leader's summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. He reiterated his position that it was necessary to establish a ceasefire in order to then negotiate a final deal. Russian president Vladimir Putin is said to have demanded full control of Donetsk and Luhansk - two occupied Ukrainian regions - as a condition for ending the war when he met Trump on Friday 'It's important that Washington is with us,' the Ukrainian leader said. He will be accompanied by several European allies, including Keir Starmer, for Monday's talks with Trump. Zelensky said that Ukraine did not yet know all the demands made by Putin at the meeting with Trump on Friday, adding that it would take a long time to go over them - and that this was not possible under 'the pressure of weapons'. Meanwhile, the world is still reeling from Trump's meeting with Putin in Alaska, where he rolled out the red carpet for the war-mongering tyrant. Most international commentators believe the negotiations were a win for Putin, with the media noticing he appeared energetic and satisfied by how the summit had gone. Trump, on the other hand, appeared uncharacteristically deflated and seemed disheartened that the famed deal-maker was not able to get an agreement together. But the US President has hit back at his critics, posting on his social media platform Truth Social on Sunday morning: 'It's incredible how the Fake News violently distorts the TRUTH when it comes to me. 'There is NOTHING I can say or do that would lead them to write or report honestly about me. I had a great meeting in Alaska on Biden's stupid War, a war that should have never happened!!!' Only minutes later, he posted: 'If I got Russia to give up Moscow as part of the Deal, the Fake News, and their PARTNER, the Radical Left Democrats, would say I made a terrible mistake and a very bad deal. Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin shake hands after a joint press conference following the US-Russia summit on Ukraine at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday 'That's why they are the FAKE NEWS! Also, they should talk about the 6 WARS, etc., I JUST STOPPED!!! MAGA.' It comes as Trump envoy Steve Witkoff gave an interview with CNN where he discussed the issue of territory - and specifically of the five regions he described as always having been the 'crux of the deal'. Russia illegally annexed Crimea in 2014 while the regions of Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson were annexed after referendums internationally viewed as shams in 2022. 'The Russians made some concessions at the table with regard to all five of those regions,' Witkoff said today. He added that the Donetsk region constitutes an 'important discussion' - and one which he said will happen tomorrow. The Donbas is predominantly Russian-speaking, and after Russia snatched Crimea in 2014, its proxy forces have gained a foothold there in a long-running war. Zelensky, who has rejected Putin's demands that Kyiv withdraw from the remaining 30 per cent of Donetsk that it still controls, played down the Russian advances, saying on X that his forces were 'countering' and 'increasing the pressure' on the 'occupier'. 'The Russian army continues to suffer significant losses in its attempts to secure more favourable political positions for the Russian leadership at the meeting in Alaska. We understand this plan and are informing our partners about the real situation,' he said. Zelensky's statement comes as negotiations to end the war continue to mount. Sir Keir Starmer, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, German chancellor Friedrich Merz and France's Emmanuel Macron will travel to Washington tomorrow for peace talks at the White House. Ms Von der Leyen said 'at the request of President Zelensky, I will join the meeting with President Trump and other European leaders in the White House tomorrow.' Other European leaders confirming they will go tomorrow included Finnish president Alexander Stubb, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni and Nato secretary general Mark Rutte. Mr Zelensky's Oval Office rendezvous follows Western allies holding a 'coalition of the willing' video call at 2pm earlier today, hosted by Sir Keir, Mr Macron and Mr Merz. Mr Trump is said to be inclined to support the plan, and will speak to Mr Zelensky about it when they meet in the Oval Office. The European leaders may also fear a repeat of Mr Zelensky's last visit to the White House at the end of February. The tumultuous spat resulted in a souring of relations between the US and Ukraine, including a temporary cut off of American aid for the war effort. Downing Street insisted Sir Keir and other allies stand ready to support the next phase of talks to end the war. A statement from No 10 said: 'At the meeting that will take place at the White House tomorrow, the Prime Minister, with other European partners, stands ready to support this next phase of further talks and will reaffirm that his backing for Ukraine will continue as long as it takes.' Yesterday, Sir Keir commended Mr Trump for bringing the conflict 'closer than ever' to an end. Mr Trump appeared to change his position on how to end the war in Ukraine following his meeting with the Russian president on Friday. Following the Alaska summit, the American leader suggested he wants to move straight to a full peace deal, rather than negotiating a ceasefire first. The shift appears to echo the Russians' refusal to agree to ceasefire before engaging in peace talks. Meanwhile Zelensky on Sunday rejected the idea of Russia offering his country security guarantees, after US and EU officials promoted the possibility. White House envoy Steve Witkoff earlier said Trump and his Russian counterpart Putin agreed to 'robust security guarantees' for Ukraine during a meeting in Alaska on Friday. EU chief Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday hailed the proposal as an offer of NATO-style security guarantees from the United States. 'We welcome President Trump's willingness to contribute to (NATO) Article 5-like security guarantees for Ukraine, and the coalition of the willing, including the European Union, is ready to do its share,' von der Leyen said. Zelensky also welcomed the idea of US security guarantees - but was less positive about Russia's intentions. 'What President Trump said about security guarantees is much more important to me than Putin's thoughts, because Putin will not give any security guarantees,' he told a press conference in Brussels alongside von der Leyen. 'Security means a strong army, which only Ukraine can provide. I believe that only Europe can finance this army.' Von der Leyen and Zelensky also shared their thoughts on a possible meeting between Trump, Putin and the Ukrainian leader. 'So far, Russia gives no sign that the trilateral will happen and if Russia refuses, then new sanctions must follow,' Zelensky said.
