Trump Forms Peace Council with 35 Countries

On January 22, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, US President Donald Trump announced the creation of his highly ambitious Peace Council (Board of Peace). While several major countries have distanced themselves, nearly 35 nations have joined this initiative. Russia is considering participation. India was also invited, but no decision has been made yet.

Trump stated that the Peace Council will address international matters beyond restoring normalcy in Gaza. He described it as one of the most influential global institutions to date, emphasizing that it will work alongside the United Nations. Contrary to earlier statements, Trump clarified it will not replace the UN, though experts see it as potentially reducing the influence of the UN Security Council.

Membership and Funding

Countries will receive temporary membership for three years. Those contributing one billion dollars will receive permanent membership. It is unclear whether the contribution needs to be one billion dollars in total or annually. Collected funds will be used for Gaza’s development. Trump invited leaders from 50 countries, including India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, though 35 countries have formally agreed to join.

Background and Executive Committee

The Peace Council was initially announced in September 2025 as part of a Gaza peace plan. Now it has been expanded globally to prevent conflicts and wars. Trump leads the council, with the executive committee including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Jared Kushner, and World Bank President Ajay Banga, among others.

Responses from Other Nations

Russian President Vladimir Putin said he would consider participation only if one billion dollars from frozen Russian assets in the US are released for permanent membership. China rejected joining or recognizing any institution outside the UN framework. France also declined participation, while the UK stated it will not join for now.