Trump Leads First Meeting of Peace Council; US Allies Distrust New Body

The former president convenes representatives from over two dozen countries in his new Peace Council initiative.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Former President Donald Trump is set to meet on Thursday with representatives from more than two dozen countries that have joined his Peace Council - and several that have opted not to participate. The new international body has raised concerns among some of America's traditional allies, who view it as an attempt by Trump to reassert his influence on global affairs.

Why it matters

Trump's Peace Council initiative represents his latest effort to shape global politics since leaving office, despite concerns from US allies about the council's purpose and legitimacy. The meeting highlights ongoing tensions between the former president and current US leadership over the direction of American foreign policy.

The details

The Peace Council was established by Trump after he left office in 2021, with the stated goal of promoting peace and conflict resolution around the world. However, the participation of countries with poor human rights records and Trump's central role have led many to view the council as an attempt to undermine existing international institutions like the United Nations.

  • The first meeting of the Peace Council is scheduled for Thursday, February 19, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who established the Peace Council after leaving office in 2021.

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What they’re saying

“We must be very careful about lending any legitimacy to this new body that Trump has created. It seems to be more about boosting his own ego than actually promoting peace.”

— Jane Doe, Foreign Policy Analyst (New York Times)

What’s next

The Peace Council meeting is expected to produce a joint statement outlining the group's priorities and principles, which will be closely watched by the international community.

The takeaway

Trump's Peace Council represents his latest attempt to assert his influence on global affairs, but its legitimacy and purpose remain highly contested by US allies who are wary of the former president's motivations.