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Kremlin Claims Putin Invited to Trump's 'Board of Peace' for Gaza
US President Donald Trump invited leaders from about 60 countries, including Russia's Vladimir Putin, to join the 'Board of Peace' initiative focused initially on Gaza reconstruction and governance, with possible expansion to other conflicts. The Kremlin confirmed receipt of the invitation and is reviewing it.
Why It Matters
The initiative positions Trump as a lifelong chair of a new global peace body, raising questions about its rivalry with UN mechanisms and potential impacts on ongoing conflicts like Gaza and Ukraine.
Timeline
5 Events
Governments React Cautiously
January 18, 2026
Governments reacted cautiously to the invitations; Hungary unequivocally accepted while others expressed anonymous concerns about impacts on UN work.
Kazakhstan Accepts Invitation
January 19, 2026
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev accepted the invitation, with his spokesperson noting Kazakhstan aims to contribute to Middle East peace.
Kremlin Confirms Putin Received Invitation
January 19, 2026
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed President Putin received the invitation through diplomatic channels to join the Board of Peace for Gaza and stated Russia is studying the proposal while hoping for US contacts to clarify details.
Trump Describes Board of Peace
Weekend January 19, 2026
Trump described the board as starting with Gaza and expanding to other conflicts, chaired by him for life; permanent membership requires $1 billion contribution.
Invitations Begin Arriving in Capitals
January 17, 2026
Invitations to join Trump's 'Board of Peace' addressed to about 60 nations began arriving in European capitals, according to diplomats.