Washington, January 20, 2026: US President Donald Trump has issued a sharp warning to France, saying his administration could impose a 200 per cent tariff on French wines and champagnes after Paris declined to join his proposed ‘Board of Peace’ initiative aimed at resolving global conflicts.
Responding to questions from reporters, Trump took a swipe at French President Emmanuel Macron over France’s reported decision to stay out of the initiative. He suggested that economic pressure could force a change in stance, claiming that steep tariffs on French exports might prompt Paris to reconsider its position.
Sources close to Macron confirmed earlier this week that France does not intend to participate in the initiative for now. The proposal was first announced by Trump last September during discussions on ending the Gaza conflict and has since expanded into a broader framework focused on addressing international disputes.
According to a draft charter circulated by the US administration to nearly 60 countries, long-term membership in the Board of Peace would require participating nations to contribute $1 billion for engagements lasting beyond three years. The proposal has drawn cautious reactions from several governments, with diplomats expressing concern that the initiative could weaken or duplicate the role of the United Nations in conflict resolution.
Trump also disclosed that Russian President Vladimir Putin has been invited to join the proposed body, though he did not elaborate on Moscow’s response.
The tariff threat underscores growing diplomatic strain between Washington and Paris, even as international responses to Trump’s peace initiative remain mixed and uncertain.
