UK Hesitates Joining Trump's Peace Board Citing Putin Concerns

DAVOS, Switzerland - The United Kingdom is holding off on joining the United States-led Board of Peace due to concerns about the potential involvement of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the initiative's broader implications for international conflict resolution. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated the UK "won't be one of the signatories today" at a ceremony held at the World Economic Forum in Davos, according to the BBC.

The decision reflects a broader unease among traditional US allies regarding the scope of the Board of Peace and its potential to undermine established diplomatic frameworks, according to multiple sources. The board, unveiled at the World Economic Forum, is being promoted by the US as a new international organization for resolving conflicts, with President Donald Trump as chairman, granting him wide decision-making powers.

Cooper told the BBC that the UK had been invited to join the board but views it as a "legal treaty that raises much broader issues" than initially presented. While the board aims to resolve conflicts, its charter lacks specific focus on pressing issues such as the Israel-Hamas war, according to reports.

The UK's hesitation underscores global skepticism surrounding the initiative. Concerns have been raised regarding the board's potential impact on the United Nations' role in international conflict resolution. The UK's decision to delay joining the Board of Peace highlights the complexities and challenges in forging international consensus on new approaches to global conflict resolution.