Overview
- Russia said President Vladimir Putin received an invitation through diplomatic channels to join the U.S.-led Board of Peace and is studying the proposal.
- Invitations went to roughly 60 countries, with a first gathering expected at the World Economic Forum in Davos this week as the board moves from announcement to operations.
- Reports on a draft charter say countries could secure permanent membership with a $1 billion contribution beyond a three-year term and that the chairman holds final approval or veto power, with some accounts describing a lifetime chairmanship.
- The White House called reports of a required minimum fee misleading, saying there is no mandatory payment to join and that permanent status reflects deep commitment, while a U.S. official indicated contributions would fund Gaza reconstruction.
- Leaders from Hungary, Kazakhstan, Argentina and Vietnam have accepted or signaled yes, Canada plans to participate without paying for permanence, Britain and France voiced reservations, and Israel said the executive lineup was not coordinated with it and runs contrary to its policy.