In a development that's raising more than a few eyebrows, Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly been invited to join the proposed "Peace Council" (also referred to as the "Board of Peace") overseeing the Gaza ceasefire and post-war governance.
The Kremlin confirmed receipt of the invitation, stating they are "examining the details of the proposal." This comes amid U.S. President Donald Trump's push for an international body—initially focused on Gaza but potentially expandable—to handle reconstruction, security, and long-term stability in the region following a recent UN Security Council resolution endorsing elements of his plan.
The irony is hard to miss: inviting a leader actively engaged in the war in Ukraine to a body dedicated to peace and conflict resolution in another hotspot. Critics see it as surreal, while others view it as pragmatic realpolitik in a multipolar world where major powers are being courted for influence and funding—reports indicate permanent seats on the council may require contributions of at least $1 billion.
The Peace Council, chaired by Trump, reportedly includes figures like Jared Kushner, Tony Blair, and representatives from various nations, with invitations extended to leaders from countries including Turkey, India, Canada, Hungary, Egypt, Jordan, and others. Some have accepted, while EU members appear largely hesitant or declining, citing concerns over undermining UN mechanisms.
Russia and China abstained from the November 2025 UNSC vote on the U.S.-backed Gaza resolution, voicing criticisms of its vagueness and potential to sideline Palestinian authority or echo "colonial-era" approaches.
Source: Kremlin statements via Ynetnews; related reporting from TASS, Reuters, Bloomberg, and others.
This move highlights the complex—and sometimes contradictory—diplomacy surrounding Gaza's future, where even ongoing conflicts don't necessarily disqualify participation in peace-building efforts.
Read More Trump's Gaza Board of Peace Includes Greece & Cyprus – Upgraded Role
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