Politis

Leaders Wary of Broader 'Peace Council' Amid Fears of Undermining UN

Published January 18, 2026, 18:11
Leaders Wary of Broader 'Peace Council' Amid Fears of Undermining UN

Governments reacted with caution on Sunday to President Donald Trump's call to join his initiative for a 'Peace Council' aimed at resolving conflicts worldwide, a plan that diplomats say could undermine the work of the United Nations. Only Hungary, whose leader is a close ally of Trump, unequivocally accepted the invitation. The proposal provides for a three-year term for member states, unless they pay $1 billion for permanent membership. The Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said her country was 'ready to contribute', while Canada initially agreed, but details have not been finalized. Diplomats have expressed concerns that the Peace Council could be an attempt to create a 'Trump UN', challenging the principles of the UN Charter.