ISLAMABAD/DAVOS — The UK has declined to sign up to US President Donald Trump’s newly proposed “Board of Peace,” citing concerns over Russian President Vladimir Putin’s potential involvement. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper told the BBC that while the UK supports Trump’s 20-point plan to end the Gaza conflict, it will not be one of the signatories at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
The Board of Peace, unveiled by the White House as a framework to rebuild Gaza, gives Trump wide powers as chairman, including the ability to appoint board members and create subsidiary bodies. Critics argue the initiative goes beyond Gaza, potentially duplicating or replacing UN functions. The founding charter reportedly comes into force once three states formally agree, with permanent seats granted to those contributing $1 billion.
Trump said the board could become “one of the most consequential bodies ever created,” and pledged to work “in conjunction with the United Nations.” Leaders from 19 countries, including Argentina, Hungary, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, attended the signing ceremony. Russia’s participation remains uncertain, with Putin indicating only that the invitation is under review and discussions on frozen Russian assets may follow.
Cooper emphasized that the UK will continue to engage in international discussions and play a role in the next phase of Gaza peace efforts, but stressed that Putin’s lack of commitment to peace in Ukraine raises broader concerns. Meanwhile, Trump’s previous threat to impose tariffs over Greenland has been dropped, following discussions with NATO allies.
The initiative has also drawn interest from other countries, including Pakistan, Egypt, and Qatar, and reportedly reached the Vatican, where the Pope has received an invitation.
