Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed readiness to part with the frozen Russian assets in the US for rebuilding war-torn Ukraine in exchange for joining
the Gaza 'Board of Peace'. This comes ahead of talks with US President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff on Thursday. As per RT, Russia could provide USD 1 billion, "right now, even before we decide whether we'll take part... in the work of the Board of Peace," the Russian president said, citing Moscow's "special relations with the people of Palestine." In his televised remarks at the meeting of the Russian Security Council late on Wednesday night, Putin said, "...incidentally, the remaining funds from our frozen assets in the US could be used to rebuild territories damaged by the fighting after a peace treaty is concluded between Russia and Ukraine. We are also discussing this possibility with representatives of the US administration." According to Trump's proposition, countries that commit USD 1 billion would secure permanent seats on the board, while those that do not pay could still join for a three-year term. Also Read: Trump Greenland Deal Explained: Access to Minerals, Golden Dome and Tariff U-Turn
The $1 billion frozen asset offer
Putin said that the money could be taken "from the Russian assets frozen by the previous [US] administration," and noted how Moscow "has always supported and continues to support any efforts aimed at strengthening international stability."
The proposed council focuses on Middle East peace, particularly Gaza reconstruction and Palestinian humanitarian needs. American envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to meet with Putin on a possible Ukrainian solution on Thursday.
RT further reported that while Putin thanked Trump for the invitation but said that more time would be needed to study the offer and consult Russia's strategic partners.
What is Trump's 'Board of Peace'
This comes after Trump on Monday (local time) confirmed that Putin has been invited to join the proposed Gaza Board of Peace, describing him as one of several world leaders considered for the initiative.
The formation of the Gaza Board of Peace, as part of Phase 2 of the 20-Point Peace Plan to end the conflict in the Middle East, aims to promote stability and oversee post-conflict reconstruction in the Gaza Strip. The Board of Peace was proposed by Trump last September as part of his plan to end the war in Gaza, although the initiative now seems to be aimed at mediating global conflict more broadly.
The high-profile international effort invites world leaders of 60 countries to join a new body aimed at promoting stability and overseeing post-conflict reconstruction, especially in the Gaza Strip.
(With agency inputs)
