Trump Pledges $10 Billion to 'Board of Peace' Amid Corruption Concerns

U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) swiftly labeled the pledge as "totally illegal" following the inaugural meeting of the board. The gathering, which included figures ranging from Argentine President Javier Milei to FIFA head Gianni Infantino, was marked by the distribution of MAGA-style red hats. During the event, Trump dismissed the massive sum as a "very small number" when compared to the costs of warfare, though he failed to identify who supported the allocation.

The announcement has intensified scrutiny of the president’s personal control over the project. Critics argue that the Board of Peace functions less as a diplomatic body and more as a global slush fund, potentially allowing foreign nations to secure preferential treatment in exchange for financial support. Nancy Okail, CEO of the Center for International Policy, characterized the initiative as the "monetization and privatization" of foreign policy. The timing of the $10 billion figure has also raised eyebrows, as it matches the amount Trump is currently seeking in a lawsuit against the U.S. Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service. As the administration touts the project, observers remain skeptical, noting that the $7 billion pledged by member nations for Gaza reconstruction falls far short of the $70 billion the United Nations estimates is required for recovery.