The United Kingdom will not sign up to US President Donald Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace”, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has said, citing concerns over Russia’s potential involvement in the initiative.
Cooper said Britain supports Trump’s broader plan aimed at stabilising and rebuilding Gaza but has reservations about joining the board at this stage. She stressed that the proposal involves complex legal and political issues and raised doubts about including Russian President Vladimir Putin in a body focused on peace efforts.
The foreign secretary noted that Russia has yet to show meaningful commitment toward ending the war in Ukraine, adding that pressure should remain on Moscow to engage seriously in peace negotiations. She confirmed that while the UK will not be a signatory for now, it will continue discussions with international partners and allies.
The Board of Peace was launched last week with the aim of overseeing a ceasefire and reconstruction process in Gaza. Several countries have indicated their intention to join, while others, including the UK, have adopted a cautious approach as diplomatic talks on Gaza and Ukraine continue.