The UK will not join Donald Trump’s proposed “board of peace” for now, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has said. She said Britain supports the US president’s 20-point plan for Gaza. However, the government has concerns about the structure of the new body and Russia’s involvement.
Trump’s “board of peace” was set up last week to manage a ceasefire and rebuilding work in Gaza. Critics say it looks like an alternative to the UN and could weaken existing international organisations. The plan shared by the White House does not mention Palestinian territory.
The BBC reported that Cooper said the UK will not sign the agreement. She said the plan involves a legal treaty and raises wider political issues. One major concern is the inclusion of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Cooper said Putin has shown no real commitment to peace, especially in Ukraine. She said pressure should remain on Russia to end the war.
Also, the Kremlin confirmed that Putin was invited to join the group. Russia said it is still reviewing the details before responding.
According to the emerging reports, this board included Donald Trump as chair. Other members include Tony Blair, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and World Bank president Ajay Banga. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Israel have said they will join.
Trump is also expected to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Davos. He said talks on ending the Ukraine war are close to a deal.
