Country Rejects Claims of Involvement in Trump’s Peace Scheme
Belgium has officially dismissed the notion that it is involved in Donald Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace.” This initiative, which seeks significant financial contributions, aims to stabilize conflict regions, specifically focusing initially on the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.
Background of Trump’s Peace Scheme
Trump’s “Board of Peace” requests a $1 billion membership fee from countries wishing to participate. The board’s objectives include promoting stability and re-establishing lawful governance in areas affected by conflict. However, the proposal has faced substantial skepticism from European nations. Many fear it may replace the United Nations’ role in international peacekeeping.
Belgium’s Response
On Thursday, as the signing ceremony was set to take place, the White House released a list of countries purportedly involved, which included Belgium, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. However, Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Maxime Prévot, clarified that Belgium has not signed the charter.
> “Belgium has NOT signed the Charter of the Board of Peace. This announcement is incorrect,” Prévot stated via a post on X.
He expressed that Belgium, along with other European nations, seeks a united response to the proposal, which they find troubling.
Concerns Over Leadership
Prévot voiced objections to Trump’s approach, labeling the initiative as an attempt to “replace the United Nations’ system” with a personal agenda. He deemed the project “totally unacceptable,” emphasizing its deviation from established international protocols.
Impact on International Relations
Tensions between the U.S. and European nations have escalated recently. These tensions were exacerbated by Trump’s controversial proposals regarding Greenland, an autonomous territory of NATO-member Denmark. Critics argue that such actions could disrupt the postwar international order.
At the signing ceremony, attendance from Western European countries was notably absent. Fewer than 20 nations attended, falling short of the 35 anticipated by senior White House staff. Notable attendees included Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, along with Argentina and Paraguay. However, Israel was not present.
Trump expressed his appreciation for the attendees, stating, “Every one of them’s a friend of mine… They’re great people and great leaders.”
As the situation develops, the future of Trump’s “Board of Peace” remains uncertain amid growing skepticism from European allies and increasing geopolitical friction.
