WASHINGTON, D.C. (Rajeev Sharma)– In a significant shift in rhetoric, President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that the United States would revitalize the United Nations, promising to make the organization “viable” and provide necessary “money-wise” assistance. However, the President also stipulated that his newly formed Board of Peace would maintain an oversight role to ensure the global body “runs properly.”
Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace—a key component of his 20-point Gaza peace plan—Trump expressed a desire to help the UN reach its “tremendous potential,” a milestone he claims it has historically failed to achieve.
The ‘Board of Peace’ vs. The United Nations
The Board of Peace was originally perceived as a potential rival or even a replacement for the UN. President Trump clarified that while the US will now work “very closely” with the world body, the relationship will feature a new hierarchy.
- Supervisory Role: Trump stated that the Board of Peace would “almost be looking over” the UN.
- Operational Independence: The President noted that he settled eight international conflicts during the first year of his second term without UN consultation, though he suggested that a “stronger” UN should be involved in such matters in the future.
Financial Commitments and Past Friction
The United States remains the UN’s largest financial backer, accounting for 22% of its regular budget and 25% of peacekeeping costs. Despite this, the US currently owes approximately $4 billion in unpaid dues. Trump’s promise to help the UN “money-wise” comes after years of skepticism, during which he previously withdrew the US from agencies like the World Health Organization (WHO).
“We’re going to strengthen up the United Nations. We’re going to make sure its facilities are good,” Trump added, noting that he planned to speak with Secretary-General António Guterres shortly. Guterres is currently attending the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi.
UN Response
From the UN’s perspective, Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric indicated that while there was no official UN presence at the Washington meeting, the global body remains committed to implementing Security Council resolutions related to Gaza. The UN continues to engage with all parties, including the Board of Peace, to address the ongoing humanitarian situation.
