President Donald Trump announced late Thursday he rescinded the 'Board of Peace' invitation extended to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. In a Truth
Social post, Trump stated the withdrawal followed Canada's refusal to pay the $1 billion fee for a permanent seat on the board he established. "Please let this Letter serve to represent that the Board of Peace is withdrawing its invitation to you regarding Canada’s joining, what will be, the most prestigious Board of Leaders ever assembled, at any time," Trump wrote. The Board of Peace operates as a private organization Trump proposed in September 2025 and formally announced January 15, 2026. Its stated purpose centers on promoting stability, governance, and peace in conflict zones, starting with Gaza Strip reconstruction after the October 7 attacks and ensuing war. Trump positioned it as a potential United Nations alternative, criticizing the UN for never aiding him. Membership falls under Trump's sole discretion, with lifetime Chairman status and unilateral authority via private charter. Critics label it a "Trump-dominated pay-to-play club" and autocrat haven, diverging from initial UN Security Council Resolution 2803 endorsement.
Is Board's Gaza Focus Blurring Into Broader Ambitions?
Canada's rejection aligns with holdouts including the United Kingdom, France, and Norway. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer raised concerns over Vladimir Putin's involvement; France declined citing UN usurpation fears, drawing Trump's 200% tariff threats on wine and champagne. Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu accepted Wednesday, bolstering the board's profile. Few nations confirm payments or joins publicly.
Carney's government explicitly refused the fee, prompting Trump's swift pullback. The board's Gaza focus blurred into broader ambitions, governed without member consultation—Trump holds veto-like power. Financial Times termed it a "fledgling club of autocrats"; The Guardian highlighted its vanity project traits over peace utility.
Diplomatic Ripples Spread
Trump's move escalates US-Canada tensions amid Sirius Dog Sled Greenland talks and tariff shadows. Carney faced "anti-American" labels from Trump allies post-decline. Davos spotlighted the board during Trump's recent speech; envoy Steve Witkoff pitched expansions.
Board lacks wide support despite Netanyahu's entry. UN ties strain as Trump eyes replacements. Canada joins Europe in sidelining the initiative, prioritizing multilateral frameworks. Private charter names Trump sole chairman for life, bypassing consultations. $1 billion seats fund operations; Gaza aid pitched early but faded. Critics argue it mocks Resolution 2803's reconstruction mandate.
