US President Donald Trump concluded his appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos after unveiling plans for a new global body called the “Board of Peace” and presenting ambitious proposals for a post-war “New Gaza.” Casting himself as a global peacemaker, Trump said the initiative could become one of the most consequential international bodies ever created, despite scepticism from several world leaders.
The Board of Peace, chaired by Trump, was initially conceived to oversee the Gaza ceasefire and reconstruction efforts following the war between Israel and Hamas. Its mandate has since expanded to include the resolution of broader international conflicts, raising concerns that it could rival the United Nations. Member countries are reportedly required to pay $1 billion for permanent membership, while the inclusion of Russian President Vladimir Putin has drawn criticism. Trump insisted the body would work in conjunction with the UN.
A significant portion of the event focused on Gaza’s reconstruction. Trump described the territory as “great real estate,” while his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, presented a master plan featuring new settlements, hotels, and residential developments branded as “New Gaza.” Gaza’s administrator also announced plans to reopen the Rafah border crossing with Egypt.
On the sidelines of the forum, Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Both described their talks as positive, with Trump saying Russia’s war with Ukraine must end. Zelensky announced upcoming trilateral talks involving Washington, Moscow, and Kyiv, and said discussions on post-war US security guarantees were advancing, though dialogue with Trump remained challenging.
Zelensky also criticised European allies for lacking urgency in confronting Russia, as broader concerns persisted over the future of transatlantic relations.
