Donald Trump is known for his unconventional moves, and now he is working to launch an international ‘Board of Peace’.
A number of countries have already shown interest in joining, although some of Trump’s Western allies are still hesitant to commit.
Trump stated that Russia had ‘accepted’ the invitation, but later, President Vladimir Putin mentioned that they were still considering it, according to Reuters.
There are still many who wonder about the role the Board of Peace will play internationally.
Initially, the BBC reported that the board was intended to help resolve the conflict between Israel and Hamas and to aid in the rebuilding of Gaza.
Last November, the UN Security Council backed the idea championed by Trump and his administration.
Trump posted on Truth Social at the time: “Congratulations to the World on the incredible Vote of the United Nations Security Council, just moments ago, acknowledging and endorsing the BOARD OF PEACE, which will be chaired by me, and include the most powerful and respected Leaders throughout the World.”
However, the most recent draft of the charter does not specifically mention the Palestinian territory and seems to have broadened its focus to address conflicts worldwide.
As per CNN, the Board of Peace’s draft charter describes it as an ‘international organization’ aimed at promoting stability, peace, and governance ‘in areas affected or threatened by conflict’.
The President of the United States has also suggested that the organization ‘might’ take over the role of the United Nations.
It remains uncertain what legal power or enforcement mechanisms the Board of Peace will possess outside of Gaza and whether it will collaborate with other international bodies, such as the United Nations.
Reuters has reported that around 35 world leaders have agreed to join out of the 50 invitations extended, according to a senior White House official.
This group includes:
Many Western allies have been hesitant, with Norway and Sweden declining the invitation for now.
Italy’s Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti expressed concerns about joining, and France is reportedly planning to reject the invitation.
The UK, Germany, and Japan have yet to announce their positions on the issue.
Ukrainian diplomats are also considering the invitation, but President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has indicated it would be challenging for him to serve on a board with Putin after years of conflict.