UK holds off joining Trump’s Board of Peace over Putin concerns
The UK will not yet join President Donald Trump’s new Board of Peace. Foreign. Secretary Yvette Cooper confirmed the decision on Thursday. She spoke during the World Economic Forum in Davos. The UK received an invitation to sign the agreement. However, it will not sign the treaty at this stage. Concerns remain about Russia’s possible involvement.
Legal and Political Concerns Raised
Cooper described the board as a complex legal treaty. She said it raises broader issues than first suggested. Initially, the board focused on ending the Gaza conflict. However, the proposed charter does not mention Gaza directly. Critics also fear it could replace some UN functions. As a result, several allies remain cautious. Notably, no permanent UN Security Council members have joined. These include the UK, France, China, and Russia. The Security Council has guided global diplomacy since World War Two.
Trump Promotes Vision for Peace
President Trump launched the board in Davos with global leaders. He said the board would not replace the United Nations. Instead, he claimed it would support peace efforts.Trump described the initiative as potentially historic. He also said it could help rebuild Gaza responsibly. In addition, he stressed cooperation with the UN.
Russia’s Role Adds Uncertainty
Trump said Vladimir Putin accepted an invitation to join. However, the Russian president has not confirmed this publicly. Russia says it is still reviewing the proposal. Putin also mentioned talks about frozen Russian assets. These discussions may happen with US officials. Therefore, uncertainty continues around the board’s future. The UK says it will keep reviewing the situation.
Officials want clarity before making commitments.
