In a significant diplomatic move, European Union Commissioner Dubravka Suica is set to attend the inaugural meeting of Donald Trump’s newly launched Board of Peace in Washington this week. An EU Commission spokesperson confirmed the development from Brussels, highlighting the bloc’s nuanced approach to engaging with the initiative.
Suica will participate in the capacity of an observer, as clarified by spokesperson Guillaume Mercier. ‘The EU Commission is not becoming a member of the Board of Peace,’ Mercier told reporters. ‘Our presence is to reaffirm our longstanding commitment to implementing a ceasefire in Gaza and to contribute to international efforts for reconstruction there.’
This step signals that Brussels is not entirely dismissing cooperation with the Trump-chaired board, despite widespread skepticism among EU member states. Many have outright rejected formal membership, citing concerns over the board’s charter and governance structure. All 27 EU countries are poised to sign a statement questioning the board’s scope.
The EU’s position is underscored by its role as the largest donor of humanitarian aid to Palestinians. Since the Israel-Hamas war erupted on October 7, 2023, the bloc has provided 1.65 billion euros in assistance to the region. Officials emphasize that Brussels cannot be sidelined in any reconstruction process led by the US.
Launched by Trump in Davos this January, the Board of Peace aims to oversee transformations in Gaza as part of a 20-point peace plan outlined last year. However, provisions in its charter—particularly Trump’s designation as lifetime chairman even after leaving the presidency—have raised eyebrows across Europe.
As global powers navigate post-conflict strategies in the Middle East, the EU’s observer role could pave the way for limited collaboration, balancing caution with a desire to influence outcomes on the ground. Stakeholders will watch closely to see if this marks the beginning of broader transatlantic alignment on Gaza’s future.