US President Donald Trump has launched his new “Board of Peace” initiative at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, amid controversy over its membership and purpose.
The board, which Trump chairs, aims to resolve international conflicts, with a $1 billion membership fee for permanent seats.
The signing ceremony was attended by leaders and officials from 19 countries, including Argentina, Hungary, and Saudi Arabia.
Trump stated that the board would work “in conjunction” with the United Nations, despite concerns it might rival the global body.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the board’s focus on achieving a lasting Gaza peace deal, saying, “The board’s focus is first and foremost on making sure that this peace deal in Gaza becomes enduring”.
The board’s membership has sparked debate, with Trump inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin, who invaded Ukraine four years ago.
Putin has said he was still considering the invitation, while Trump claims he accepted.
Several key US allies, including France and Britain, have expressed skepticism and declined to attend the ceremony.
UK Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper cited concerns over Russia’s involvement, saying, “We won’t be one of the signatories today, because this is about a legal treaty that raises much broader issues”.
Other countries that have declined to join include Norway, Sweden, and Slovenia. Italy and Germany are still assessing the proposal.
Trump is set to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after the ceremony to discuss a ceasefire in Ukraine.
Zelensky has expressed concerns that Trump’s push to seize Greenland might divert attention from Russia’s invasion.
Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff said talks to end the Ukraine war have made progress, with only one issue remaining.
Witkoff is traveling to Moscow to meet Putin before proceeding to Abu Dhabi for further talks.
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