US President Donald Trump has begun extending invitations to world leaders to join his so-called "board of peace," sparking questions about the group's true intentions. Initially unveiled as part of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas aimed at ending the devastating war in Gaza, the board is now seen as taking on a broader role.
In letters posted to social media by Argentine President Javier Milei and Paraguay's leader Santiago Pena, Trump outlined a vision for the board that goes beyond its initial purpose. The "charter" accompanying the letters emphasizes the group's aim to promote stability, restore lawful governance, and secure enduring peace in areas affected by conflict.
However, critics have labeled the board as a thinly veiled attempt at a "Trump United Nations," ignoring the fundamental principles of the existing UN charter. Diplomatic sources have confirmed that the invitations included a wider mandate for the body, but the White House has insisted this was not the case.
The Trump administration claims the board is not intended to replace the UN, but rather augment its efforts with new initiatives and perspectives. However, many observers remain skeptical about the group's true goals, particularly given the initial lack of Palestinian representation on the board.
Trump has already announced several high-profile members for the board, including former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Israeli billionaire Yakir Gabay. The group also includes representatives from various Middle Eastern countries, but critics argue that this composition is skewed towards pro-Israel interests.
The White House has acknowledged that some countries may be asked to pay a fee for permanent membership on the board, reportedly ranging from $1 billion. However, the administration denies this was a minimum requirement, instead framing it as an "investment" in peace and prosperity.
In letters posted to social media by Argentine President Javier Milei and Paraguay's leader Santiago Pena, Trump outlined a vision for the board that goes beyond its initial purpose. The "charter" accompanying the letters emphasizes the group's aim to promote stability, restore lawful governance, and secure enduring peace in areas affected by conflict.
However, critics have labeled the board as a thinly veiled attempt at a "Trump United Nations," ignoring the fundamental principles of the existing UN charter. Diplomatic sources have confirmed that the invitations included a wider mandate for the body, but the White House has insisted this was not the case.
The Trump administration claims the board is not intended to replace the UN, but rather augment its efforts with new initiatives and perspectives. However, many observers remain skeptical about the group's true goals, particularly given the initial lack of Palestinian representation on the board.
Trump has already announced several high-profile members for the board, including former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Israeli billionaire Yakir Gabay. The group also includes representatives from various Middle Eastern countries, but critics argue that this composition is skewed towards pro-Israel interests.
The White House has acknowledged that some countries may be asked to pay a fee for permanent membership on the board, reportedly ranging from $1 billion. However, the administration denies this was a minimum requirement, instead framing it as an "investment" in peace and prosperity.