Major European allies decline to join first meeting of Trump’s Board of Peace
Dozens of world leaders will meet in Washington DC for Donald Trump's Board of Peace, despite major European allies opting out and raising concerns about the initiative's transparency and funding.
A significant gathering of world leaders is set to take place in Washington DC for the inaugural meeting of Donald Trump's newly established Board of Peace, which is primarily focused on the reconstruction of Gaza following the recent conflict with Israel. However, key European allies have opted not to participate in the summit, citing concerns over the organization’s unclear funding sources and political intentions. The absence of these major partners signals a potential rift in international collaboration concerning peace and stability in the region.
The White House has noted that the summit will also serve as a fundraising event, with Trump announcing commitments exceeding $5 billion for Gaza's rebuilding efforts. This financial backing aims to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the conflict, as well as to support the formation of an International Stabilization Force to maintain peace in the area. Trump's assertion of robust international support may reflect a strategy to bolster his administration’s image as a mediator in the Middle East, even amidst skepticism from traditional allies.
The evolution of the Board of Peace’s mandate beyond Gaza’s reconstruction to include broader security measures raises questions about the strategic direction and effectiveness of the initiative. As Trump's administration seeks to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, the lack of participation from established European powers indicates challenges in garnering unified support for U.S.-led initiatives, especially in contexts where political transparency and funding accountability remain in question.