Ukraine wary of joining Trump's 'Board of Peace' alongside Russia and Belarus

KYIV, UKRAINE: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed on Tuesday, January 20, that he had received an invitation to join President Donald Trump’s newly formed 'Board of Peace'. The US-led initiative, initially designed to oversee post-war governance in Gaza, was being positioned as a broader diplomatic platform for resolving global conflicts.

Zelenskyy acknowledged the offer during remarks to reporters, saying Kyiv was reviewing the proposal. “We have received the invitation. Our diplomats are working on this invitation,” he said.

The White House had stated that the board would play an “essential role” in ending the war in Gaza and guiding reconstruction in the enclave.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy says 'Russia is about a board of war' 

The Ukrainian leader made it clear that serving alongside countries currently waging war against Ukraine presented a fundamental problem. Trump confirmed on Monday that Russian President Vladimir Putin had also been invited to join the board.

Belarus’ foreign ministry separately said that President Alexander Lukashenko had also received an invitation and was “ready to participate.” Lukashenko is one of Putin’s closest allies and reportedly allowed Russian forces to launch the 2022 invasion of Ukraine from Belarusian territory.

“Honestly, for now it is very difficult for me to imagine how we could be together with Russia in one board or another,” Zelenskyy said. He contrasted the board’s stated mission with Moscow’s actions, adding, “Russia is about a board of war, and Belarus is together with them - specifically the Lukashenko regime.”

Kremlin reviewing proposal details 

While Kyiv voiced hesitation, Moscow signaled openness. The Kremlin said on Tuesday that it was reviewing “all the details of the proposal” and might seek further clarification from Washington.

Belarusian officials went further, stating that the invitation had been delivered to Lukashenko and “received positively.” 

Energy attacks may cancel Volodymyr Zelenskyy's WEF trip 

Zelenskyy also addressed his travel plans, saying he might cancel his trip to the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos following overnight Russian strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

Even if the president remained in Kyiv, Ukraine would maintain a presence. National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov said on Facebook that the country’s delegation was already in Davos to meet with partners.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy urges respect for Denmark's 'sovereignty'

Zelenskyy also commented on rising tensions between the United States and Europe over Greenland, urging restraint and diplomacy. “I personally deeply respect Denmark and we respect their sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said.

He called for de-escalation, adding, “I very, very much want America to hear Europe - specifically to hear it in the format of diplomacy.” Zelenskyy said he believed the dispute would be resolved without major consequences, stating, “I truly believe that there will be no major threats.”