U.S. President Donald Trump has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to join a proposed "board of peace" aimed at resolving global conflicts and overseeing governance and reconstruction efforts in Gaza. The invitation, revealed Monday, comes as Russia's war in Ukraine nears its fourth year, with peace negotiations stalled and a resolution remaining distant.
Trump, who had pledged to end the Ukraine conflict within 24 hours of assuming office a year ago, has been actively seeking a resolution, but a war of attrition continues despite ongoing negotiations. The invitation to Putin has drawn international scrutiny given the ongoing conflict and the complex geopolitical landscape.
The proposed board of peace, according to earlier announcements, is intended to address various global conflicts and to specifically manage the reconstruction and governance of Gaza following recent escalations in violence. Trump has already named former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair and his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, as members of the board. He has also extended invitations to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.
The inclusion of Putin, however, introduces a layer of complexity, given Russia's role in the Ukraine war and its strained relationship with many Western nations. Critics question the feasibility of Putin's involvement in a peace initiative while his country is actively engaged in a major armed conflict. The move also raises concerns about the potential for conflicting interests and agendas within the board.
The United Nations has repeatedly called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for respect for international law and the territorial integrity of Ukraine. The war has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and widespread destruction of infrastructure. The invitation to Putin could be interpreted as an attempt to engage Russia in broader peace efforts, but it also risks undermining international efforts to hold Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine.
The Kremlin has yet to formally respond to the invitation. The composition and mandate of the board of peace remain under discussion, and its effectiveness will depend on the willingness of all parties to engage constructively and prioritize peaceful solutions. The situation in Gaza remains volatile, and the success of any reconstruction and governance efforts will require the cooperation of regional and international actors.
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