Why chef José Andrés’ surprising message about Donald Trump after the Nobel Peace Prize announcement left everyone stunned

When Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado was announced as the winner of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize on Friday, October 10, few expected one of the most talked-about reactions to come from acclaimed Spanish-American chef José Andrés—and even fewer expected it to involve Donald Trump.

In a message posted shortly after the announcement, the world-renowned humanitarian chef addressed the former president directly:

“In a way Sir, this is your win too. I applaud your stance in ending Maduro’s hold to power in Venezuela and she is fighting for the same thing within! She is your partner! As you supported her before…Thanks for your efforts in Gaza, and please let’s end the war in Russia… You can do it! You must and the NobelPeacePrize will be yours!”

José Andrés

The comment took social media by surprise. Some saw it as genuine praise, others as a biting piece of irony aimed at Trump, who many had speculated might win the Peace Prize himself this year.

A long and complicated history between José Andrés and Trump

The exchange reopened old wounds in a rivalry that dates back to 2015, when José Andrés withdrew from opening a restaurant in the Trump International Hotel in Washington, D.C., following Trump’s comments linking Mexican immigrants to crime.

Trump responded with a $10 million lawsuit for breach of contract. José Andrés countersued for $7.5 million, citing damage to his reputation and business. The legal battle ended in a confidential settlement, but the tension never really faded.

Over the years, the chef—who earned American citizenship in 2013—has been an outspoken critic of Trump’s policies, especially on immigration and humanitarian issues.

Clashes over Washington, D.C., and public service

More recently, José Andrés criticized the deployment of federal troops in Washington, D.C., which the Trump administration said was meant to “restore security.” The chef claimed the heavy military presence forced restaurants to close and accused Trump of lying about the “positive impact” of his administration’s policies on the local economy.

Adding to the tension, José Andrés was removed this year from his role as co-chair of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, a position he held under President Biden. Trump dismissed him and several others after returning to the White House, in what many described as an ideological purge.

Activism vs. power: a symbol of two Americas

For years, José Andrés has embodied social activism through food—from leading relief efforts in disaster zones with his nonprofit World Central Kitchen to defending migrant rights and promoting humanitarian causes.

Trump, on the other hand, has faced criticism for policies seen as divisive and for remarks that have alienated immigrant communities.

Despite the stark contrast between them, moments like the chef’s unexpected message after the Nobel Peace Prize reveal a more complex reality—one where admiration, sarcasm, and hope for peace coexist in a single statement.

Whether his words were sincere or strategic, José Andrés once again reminded the world that food, politics, and humanity often share the same table—and that even old rivals can find common ground, if only for a moment.

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