EU leaders voice concerns about the scope and governance of Trump’s Board of Peace, but remain ready to cooperate on Gaza peace plan implementation.
BRUSSELS: European leaders hold serious doubts about the scope of President Donald Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace” but are prepared to work with the United States and the new body on Gaza.
European Council President Antonio Costa stated the EU has serious reservations about elements of the board’s charter following a leaders’ summit.
“We have serious doubts about a number of elements in the charter of the Board of Peace related to its scope, its governance and its compatibility with the UN Charter,” Costa said.
He added that the EU is ready to collaborate on implementing a comprehensive Peace Plan for Gaza through the board as a transitional administration.
The board’s founding charter sets a $1 billion fee for permanent membership.
Originally intended to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction, the charter does not explicitly limit the board’s role to that territory, suggesting a potential rivalry with the United Nations.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez confirmed his country declined an invitation to participate in the body.
Trump unveiled the Board of Peace at the World Economic Forum in Davos, joined by leaders from 19 countries to sign its founding charter.
Key US allies like France and Britain have also expressed significant concerns.
London specifically highlighted concerns over the inclusion of Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose forces invaded Ukraine in 2022.
France stated the current charter is incompatible with its international commitments, particularly its UN membership.
