Trump Withdraws Invitation to Mark Carney for Board of Peace

US President Donald Trump has dramatically withdrawn an invitation for Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to join his newly formed “Board of Peace,” a body aimed at resolving international conflicts, starting with Gaza. The announcement came via a pointed post on Truth Social, where Trump stated that the Board was retracting Canada’s invitation to what he described as “the most prestigious Board of Leaders ever assembled.” This move marks a sharp escalation in frosty relations between the two North American neighbors, following recent public exchanges that highlighted deep divergences on global order and economic leverage.

The rift intensified after Prime Minister Carney’s high-profile speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this week. Carney warned of a “rupture” in the longstanding US-led global order and emphasized that middle powers like Canada must adapt to a new reality where economic coercion by major powers is increasingly common. His remarks, which earned a standing ovation, included a direct rebuttal to Trump’s earlier claim that “Canada lives because of the United States,” with Carney asserting that Canada thrives due to its own values and independence.

Initially, Carney had indicated acceptance of the Board of Peace invitation in principle, though Canadian officials stressed that Ottawa would not commit to the reported $1 billion funding requirement for permanent membership. The government also highlighted preconditions like unimpeded aid to Gaza. However, Trump’s swift reversal appears tied to these hesitations and Carney’s broader critique of shifting geopolitics, underscoring growing strains in US-Canada ties under the current administrations.

Also Read: Israel Raises Concerns Over Trump’s Gaza 'Board of Peace'

The Board of Peace, chaired by Trump, was originally proposed to oversee post-conflict reconstruction in Gaza but has since been positioned as a broader alternative to existing international institutions like the United Nations. While some leaders expressed interest, many traditional allies have responded coolly, viewing it as a pay-to-play mechanism lacking multilateral credibility. Trump’s decision to disinvite Canada signals that participation may hinge on alignment with his vision rather than broad consensus.

This latest diplomatic spat risks further complicating bilateral issues, from trade to security cooperation, at a time when both nations navigate complex global challenges. Observers note that the public nature of the exchange could harden positions on both sides, potentially affecting future collaboration.

Also Read: US Advances Gaza Peace Plan with New Technocratic Governance and Reconstruction Efforts