In a lengthy and often disjointed address on Thursday, President Donald Trump declared that the United States will contribute a staggering $10 billion to the newly established Board of Peace. The announcement came during the inaugural gathering of the board at the Donald J. Trump U.S. Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C., a venue recently renamed in his honor.
A Contentious New Entity
The Board of Peace, first proposed by Trump in September of last year, was initially framed as a mechanism to implement his vision for reconstructing Gaza following the devastating Hamas-Israel conflict. However, the president has since expanded its purported mandate, stating it will address conflicts worldwide. Critics have voiced deep concerns, arguing that the board, largely composed of nations with authoritarian regimes, could significantly undermine the role and authority of the United Nations.
"The Board of Peace is showing how a better future can be built, starting right here in this room," Trump told the assembled leaders. "And I want to let you know that the United States is going to make a contribution of $10 billion to the Board of Peace, and we’ve got great support for that number."
Funding and Membership Details Remain Murky
The president provided no further specifics on the monumental $10 billion pledge, leaving unanswered critical questions about the funding source and the precise scope of its allowable expenditures. According to Trump, contributing nations have already raised $7 billion as an initial down payment dedicated to Gaza's regeneration efforts.
More than 20 countries have reportedly joined the initiative, with membership requiring a $1 billion contribution to secure a permanent seat on the board. Early recruits include Argentina, Hungary, and Saudi Arabia. Notably, major Western powers such as the United Kingdom, France, and Germany have thus far declined to participate, snubbing Trump's offer.
The political tensions surrounding the board were further highlighted when Trump revoked Canada's invitation. This action came after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a speech condemning "authoritarianism and exclusion," remarks widely interpreted as a veiled criticism of the U.S. president.
Trump's Rambling Address Covers War, Politics, and Personal Grievances
The summit coincided with escalating tensions, as Trump threatens potential military action against Iran. He used the platform to reveal that he would decide whether to launch an attack within the next ten days, amid ongoing negotiations to limit Iran's nuclear program.
However, the president's speech frequently lurched from topic to topic, blending matters of war and peace with domestic political attacks and personal commentary.
Targeting Political Rivals
Trump fixated on Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), referencing her recent appearance at the Munich Security Conference. He called her an "attractive woman" who was "unable to answer questions," alluding to perceived errors that have circulated in media reports. He suggested one of her answers could be "career-ending" but did not specify which one. Ocasio-Cortez has dismissed speculation about a 2028 presidential run, characterizing such talk as "out of touch and missing the point."
The president also took a jab at California Governor Gavin Newsom, another potential Democratic contender for the presidency.
Odd Asides and Personal Remarks
In another peculiar deviation, Trump commented on the appearance of Paraguayan President Santiago Peña, mispronouncing his name in the process. "Young, handsome guy. It’s always nice to be young and handsome. Doesn’t mean we have to like you," Trump said, before awkwardly clarifying, "I don’t like young, handsome men. Women I like. Men... no, I don’t have any interest."
The forum also provided Trump an opportunity to revisit a longstanding personal grievance: his failure to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Thanking FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who was present, for a peace prize awarded by his soccer organization, Trump lamented, "I got screwed by Norway."
Attempts to Reassure on UN Role
Amid concerns that his Board of Peace could jeopardize the United Nations' status as the world's primary peacekeeping body, Trump attempted to offer reassurances. "We’re going to strengthen up the United Nations," he asserted. He elaborated, stating, "The United Nations has great potential, really great potential. It has not lived up to potential…The Board of Peace is going to almost be looking over the United Nations and making sure it runs properly."
He issued a warning to nations hesitant to join his initiative, stating that those who haven't accepted are "playing a little cute," and sternly added, "You can’t play cute with me."
As the controversial board convenes, the White House has yet to provide further details on the mechanics of the massive U.S. financial commitment, leaving many questions unanswered about the future of this unconventional diplomatic endeavor.
