Washington, D.C. – January 21, 2026 – In a bold diplomatic maneuver blending Middle East peace efforts with aggressive trade policies, President Donald Trump has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to join a newly formed “Board of Peace” aimed at overseeing Gaza’s post-war reconstruction and security. The invitation comes amid escalating tensions with French President Emmanuel Macron, whom Trump threatened with tariffs after Macron declined to participate, and broader European disputes over Greenland’s sovereignty.
The “Board of Peace” is a cornerstone of Trump’s ambitious 20-point plan for resolving the Gaza conflict, which emphasizes international collaboration to rebuild infrastructure, ensure long-term security, and foster economic stability in the region. According to White House sources, more than 10 countries have already committed to the initiative, with a formal signing ceremony scheduled for Thursday at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. The board’s formation signals Trump’s intent to leverage global partnerships to address one of the world’s most intractable conflicts, though critics have raised concerns about its feasibility and inclusivity.
Trump publicly confirmed Putin’s invitation during a casual exchange with reporters following a college football event on Tuesday. “Vladimir’s a strong leader, and we need strong leaders for peace,” Trump reportedly said, emphasizing the need for diverse perspectives in the peace process. The Kremlin has acknowledged the invitation and stated it is under review, with no immediate commitment announced. This move has sparked debate in Washington, where some lawmakers worry about aligning with Russia amid ongoing geopolitical frictions, while others see it as a pragmatic step toward broader international buy-in.
The invitation to Putin stands in stark contrast to Trump’s deteriorating relations with key European allies. French President Emmanuel Macron rebuffed the offer to join the board, citing concerns over its scope and potential overlap with existing multilateral frameworks, such as those led by the United Nations. In response, Trump lashed out on social media and in public statements, threatening to impose tariffs on French goods and warning that Macron is “out of office very soon.” White House officials clarified that the tariffs could extend to broader European imports if other nations follow suit, framing the move as leverage to encourage participation in U.S.-led initiatives.
Tensions with Europe have further intensified over Trump’s renewed push for U.S. control of Greenland, a Danish autonomous territory rich in natural resources and of strategic importance due to its Arctic location. Trump has argued that American oversight would enhance global security and economic opportunities, but Denmark and its allies have firmly rejected the proposal. In retaliation, the U.S. has already implemented a 10% tariff on imports from Denmark and seven other nations supportive of Copenhagen’s stance. Administration officials have warned that these tariffs could escalate to 25% by June if resistance continues, potentially straining transatlantic trade relations already fragile from previous disputes.
Experts suggest this dual approach—diplomatic outreach to non-Western powers like Russia while applying economic pressure on Europe—reflects Trump’s “America First” doctrine in action. “It’s a high-stakes gamble,” said Dr. Elena Vasquez, a foreign policy analyst at the Brookings Institution. “Inviting Putin could bring fresh momentum to Gaza talks, but alienating Europe risks isolating the U.S. on other fronts, like climate change and NATO commitments.”
As the Davos signing ceremony approaches, the international community is watching closely. The Board of Peace could mark a pivotal moment in Middle East diplomacy, but its success may hinge on navigating these intertwined global rivalries. The White House has not yet released a full list of participating countries, adding an element of anticipation to Thursday’s event.
