The $1 Billion Price Tag: Trump Launches 'Board of Peace' at Davos 2026

The global diplomatic order just took a sharp turn toward a transaction-based future. On January 22, 2026, US President Donald Trump formally unveiled the first charter of his so-called "Board of Peace" at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos. Billed as a body for resolving international conflicts, it comes with a staggering $1bn membership fee, raising questions about whether the United Nations' role is being deliberately sidelined.

Inside the Trump Board of Peace Charter

According to reports from Al Jazeera and AFP, the 11-page charter notably omits any mention of the Gaza Strip, despite the board's original conception as a vehicle for Gaza's reconstruction after two years of war. Instead, the initiative appears to be an ambitious platform for global crisis management. "Once this board is completely formed we can do pretty much whatever we want to do," Trump claimed on stage, surrounded by leaders from Argentina, Indonesia, and Bahrain.

The board's structure is heavily concentrated in the hands of Trump's inner circle. He will serve as chair, supported by a "founding executive council" that includes Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Jared Kushner, and Tony Blair. Rubio described the group as a "board of action," contrasting it with traditional diplomatic institutions that have been criticized by the administration for their perceived inefficiency.

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Controversy Over Putin and Palestinian Exclusion

The inclusion of controversial figures has sparked a backlash among Western allies. Russia's state media reported that President Vladimir Putin is considering the invitation and may contribute $1bn using frozen assets. This move led the UK, France, and several Nordic countries to opt out of the ceremony, citing concerns over Putin's commitment to peace in Ukraine.

Furthermore, the absence of Palestinian representatives on the board has drawn criticism. While Trump praised the flow of aid into Gaza, UN agencies continue to report dire shortages. Locals in the Strip told Al Jazeera they feel like "a problem to be managed" rather than people with sovereign rights.