Russian President Vladimir Putin has adopted a measured and cautious approach to the US-proposed “Board of Peace” for Gaza, stating that Moscow has not yet taken a final call on joining the initiative and is still in the process of examining its contours. His remarks directly contradicted US President Donald Trump’s claim that Russia had already agreed to participate, highlighting a gap between Washington’s assertions and Moscow’s position.
Speaking during a televised meeting of Russia’s National Security Council, Putin said the Kremlin was carefully reviewing the proposal and would only decide after detailed consultations with Russia’s strategic partners. He explained that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had been tasked with studying the documents received from the US side and engaging in discussions with allies before Russia formally responds to the invitation.
At the same time, Putin signalled a degree of openness to the initiative by announcing that Russia could contribute USD 1 billion toward permanent membership of the Board of Peace. He said this contribution could be sourced from Russian state assets that were frozen by the United States during the previous administration, even before a final decision on participation is taken.
Putin underlined that Russia has consistently supported efforts aimed at strengthening international stability and said Moscow recognises the current US administration’s role in attempting to resolve major global crises, including the war in Ukraine. However, he stressed that any Russian involvement in the proposed Board must align with broader international principles and consultations.
Elaborating on the proposed financial contribution, Putin said Russia’s decision would be guided by its longstanding relationship with the Palestinian people. He added that any mechanism related to Gaza’s governance and reconstruction must contribute to a durable settlement of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, in line with United Nations resolutions, and must prioritise the fundamental needs, rights and aspirations of Palestinians.
The Board of Peace was initially presented by the United States as a compact group of influential global leaders tasked with overseeing post-war governance and reconstruction in Gaza. Over time, however, the concept has expanded significantly, with its mandate now extending to mediation and oversight in multiple global conflicts, prompting comparisons with the United Nations Security Council.
Putin’s comments came only hours after President Trump told reporters at the World Economic Forum in Davos that the Russian leader had already accepted the invitation to join the Board. Trump asserted that Putin’s participation was confirmed, adding to the perception that the initiative had secured broad international backing.
According to the White House, around 35 world leaders have so far agreed to join the Board of Peace out of approximately 50 invitations issued. Countries that have reportedly accepted include several key Middle Eastern states, NATO members such as Turkey and Hungary, as well as nations across Asia, Europe, Africa and Latin America.
India has also received an invitation to join the Board of Peace. However, New Delhi, like Moscow, has not yet made a final decision on whether it will formally participate in the initiative.
