In a recent article in The New York Times, American writer Serge Shamian analyzes President Donald Trump's newly formed initiative called the 'Peace Council,' which held its first meeting on Thursday. Shamian expresses concern over the similarities between the council's approach and the propaganda tactics employed by the former Soviet Union during the Cold War. This comparison raises questions about the true intentions behind the council, especially within the context of international relations and peacekeeping efforts.

The inaugural meeting of the Peace Council was attended by representatives from 47 countries, including some members and the European Union as an observer, who gathered to discuss reconstruction and stability in Gaza following the recent violent conflict described by some as a 'genocide.' Shamian highlights the role of global powers in the meeting and mentions Trump's announcement of a significant financial pledge of $10 billion for Gaza through the Peace Council, alongside contributions of over $7 billion from other nations intended to assist the Palestinian sector.

Shamian begins his critique by recalling his own experiences in the Soviet Union, where peace slogans were a staple in official discourse despite the nation’s military and aggressive policies. This historical reflection sets the tone for his skepticism towards Trump's claims of promoting peace. The article challenges the credibility of the initiative and suggests that careful scrutiny of such endeavors is necessary to discern their true nature and effectiveness in fostering genuine peace in conflict-stricken regions.