U.S. President Donald Trump announced on January 22, 2026, that he is withdrawing Canada’s invitation to join his newly launched “Board of Peace,” a high-profile initiative aimed at resolving global conflicts, starting with a Gaza ceasefire.
The decision came via a post on Truth Social, directly responding to recent comments by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Trigger and Trump’s Statement
Trump’s move followed Carney’s speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where the Canadian leader criticized powerful nations for weaponizing economic integration and tariffs, warning of a potential rupture in the U.S.-led global order.
Carney suggested middle powers like Canada could collaborate to counter hegemony, especially after Canada’s recent trade deal with China.
In his post, Trump wrote: “Please let this Letter serve to represent that the Board of Peace is withdrawing its invitation to you regarding Canada’s joining, what will be, the most prestigious Board of Leaders ever assembled, at any time.”
He added that Canada “lives because of the United States” and addressed Carney personally: “Remember that, Mark, the next time you make your statements.”
Background on the Board of Peace
Trump officially launched the Board of Peace on January 22, 2026, in Switzerland, endorsed by a U.N. Security Council resolution primarily focused on cementing a Gaza ceasefire.
The board requires each permanent member to contribute $1 billion in funding and is intended to operate in conjunction with the United Nations. Trump described it as enabling broad actions:
“Once this board is completely formed, we can do pretty much whatever we want to do.” Current members include Argentina, Bahrain, Morocco, Pakistan, and Turkey, while allies like Britain, France, and Italy have declined to join for now. A U.N. spokesperson noted limited engagement tied specifically to the Gaza context.
Reactions and Implications
Neither Carney’s office nor the White House immediately commented on the withdrawal. The episode highlights escalating tensions in U.S.-Canada relations, exacerbated by trade disputes and differing views on global economic governance.
Carney had previously indicated acceptance of the invitation last week. The revocation underscores Trump’s sensitivity to criticism and his use of the board as a platform for influence, potentially affecting multilateral efforts on peace initiatives.