

In an unpredictable speech on Thursday, President Donald Trump revealed that the United States will allocate $10 billion to the newly formed Board of Peace during its inaugural summit in Washington, D.C. The Board, clouded in controversy and composed primarily of nations with authoritarian governments, was originally conceived to manage the reconstruction efforts of Gaza post-conflict. However, the initiative has now expanded its vision to mediating international disputes beyond the Middle East. Despite Trump's enthusiastic announcement, specifics about the U.S. financial contribution remain elusive, sparking debates about the board's potential implications for the United Nations' authority as the chief global peacekeeping entity. Throughout the event, Trump's discourse touched on a range of topics, from congratulating countries like Argentina, Hungary, and Saudi Arabia for their Board involvement to jesting disdain for those opting out, notably G7 powerhouses such as the U.K., France, and Germany. The president's verbal sparring extended to political players like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, whose perceived political aspirations he dissected humorously yet critically, and California's Governor Gavin Newsom, a potential rival in future elections. In tandem, Trump displayed his characteristic unpredictability in commenting on various world leaders' appearances, an anecdote steering his speech away from its main themes of peace and international diplomacy. Against this backdrop, tensions with Iran loomed large, as Trump revealed imminent decisions on potential military action hinging on nuclear deal negotiations. The eclectic speech not only showcased Trump’s ambitions on the world stage but also revived his grievances over perceived slights regarding international recognition—most notably, his ongoing dissatisfaction with Norway’s Nobel Peace Prize decisions, as he openly jested about award attributions he considered unjust.