The first meeting of the "Board of Peace" initiated by Donald Trump has sparked a wave of controversy in Europe. While Minister Antonio Tajani participated in the proceedings as an observer, leaders of minority factions in the European Parliament are demanding that the European Commission distance itself from this initiative. Simultaneously, the Pentagon is warning the European Union against favoring its own arms industry at the expense of American contractors, which is straining transatlantic relations.

Controversy Over the Board of Peace

The S&D and Renew factions are demanding explanations from the European Commission regarding Commissioner Šuica's participation in Trump's new body.

Warning from the Pentagon

The USA threatens to restrict access for European companies if the EU introduces preferences for manufacturers from Europe.

Hamas's Position

The organization allows the presence of peacekeeping forces to monitor the ceasefire, while ruling out any influence on governance.

Italy-Germany Relations

Ministers Tajani and Wadephul declare cooperation on Gaza's reconstruction despite the lack of EU consensus.

The initiative by Donald Trump called the Board of Peace, aimed at resolving the conflict in the Gaza Strip, has become the source of a deep divide within the European Union. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, after participating in the inaugural meeting in Washington, reported on the course of talks to his German counterpart, Johann Wadephul. Italy and Germany declare joint commitment to Gaza's reconstruction and humanitarian aid, but the Council's very format is sharply criticized by the European left and liberals. The S&D, Renew Europe, and Greens groups sent a letter to Ursula von der Leyen, assessing Commissioner Dubravka Šuica's participation in the meeting as a "serious mistake" and an action without a mandate from the EU Council. The situation is further complicated by the position of Hamas, which declared readiness to accept international peacekeeping forces, but on the condition of no interference in the territory's internal affairs. Meanwhile, the Vatican decided not to take part in the Council's work, which was met with regret by the White House. Critics argue that the private nature of the body led by the former US president undermines the authority of the UN and serves particular political and business interests, rather than genuinely establishing peace. Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, numerous peace initiatives undertaken by US administrations have repeatedly bypassed official UN channels, leading to tensions on the Washington-Brussels line.In parallel, a trade-military dispute is escalating. The US Department of Defense issued a warning to European countries, opposing "Buy European" clauses in the arms sector. Washington is threatening retaliatory measures if American companies are cut off from European contracts. Simultaneously, France calls for unity in the face of the 10-percent import tariffs announced by the USA, arguing that Brussels possesses appropriate tools to respond to American protectionism.

Mentioned People

  • Donald Trump — Creator and chairman of the Board of Peace.
  • Antonio Tajani — Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy.
  • Dubravka Šuica — Croatian politician, EU Commissioner participating in the Board of Peace.