Putin outlines Russia’s stance on participating in Trump’s Peace Council and discusses using frozen assets for funding.
Russia’s Position on Peace Council Participation
Vladimir Putin on January 21 during a video conference with permanent members of the Russian Security Council addressed participation in the Peace Council established by Donald Trump. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been instructed to review the documents sent to them, consult with strategic partners, and only after that will they be able to respond to the invitation.
Russia Proposes Using Frozen Assets for Peace Council
Russia could transfer one billion dollars to the Peace Council from Russian assets frozen during the previous US administration, according to Putin. He also suggested that the remaining assets could be used for the reconstruction of territories affected by military actions after a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine. Putin stated that Russia is holding talks with the US administration on this matter.
Peace Council Signing Ceremony Planned for Davos
On January 22, during a special ceremony at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the statute of the Peace Council is to be signed by heads of state and government invited by Donald Trump. The project appears to be an alternative to the United Nations, which Trump has long criticized. Permanent participation would cost one billion dollars, while joining as a non-permanent member would be free for a three-year term. The council will include representatives from approximately 60 countries and organizations, including leaders from Poland, France, Germany, Italy, Canada, Russia, Belarus, Turkey, and the Middle East. Most European leaders have yet to decide on their participation.
