|   2026-01-18 15:57:36

Trump-led Peace Council raises concerns about the role of the UN

US President Donald Trump has invited around 60 countries to join a newly established "Peace Council" to resolve global conflicts, particularly the war in Gaza. While Hungary accepted the invitation without hesitation, most governments have responded cautiously. Diplomats warn of a possible weakening of the UN's position.

Trump would chair the council for life. Member countries would have a three-year term, which would become permanent after paying $1 billion. The proposal has been criticized as a "Trump UN" that bypasses existing international institutions.

The Council's mandate has so far only been approved by the UN Security Council until 2027 and has been limited to Gaza. Trump wants to extend its scope to other conflicts. Many diplomats warn that such a move could undermine the unity of the international community and call into question the legitimacy of the UN.

The US president has specified that the body will be "something unique" and believes that a pragmatic approach can replace ineffective institutions.

However, UN officials insist that the UN is the only organization capable of uniting all nations. Annalena Baerbock, President of the UN General Assembly, warned that abandoning this framework could mean a return to "dark times."

(reuters, max)