Davos Wraps Up With Attention Turned to Gaza, Ukraine
After beginning with a tumultuous rift within the Western alliance over Greenland, this year's World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland comes to a close with the launch of US President Donald Trump's "Board of Peace" for Gaza and hopes for an end to fighting in Ukraine.
Board of Peace Launched
REPORTER:
US President Donald Trump and other leaders officially launch a new body aimed at solving world conflicts outside the United Nations. Trump’s been calling for this “Board of Peace” since September. Now, here, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, the board is a reality.
Just days ago, Trump threatened a US invasion of Greenland and told Norway’s king that peace might not be his administration’s priority. But peace, it seems, is back in the president’s thoughts.
A broad mix of countries have signed up — from US allies like Israel and Turkey to some adversaries, perhaps even Russia. But some European allies are opting out — as is US rival China.
The first likely task is the Gaza War, now in its third year. It's the conflict Trump had in mind when he came up with the idea for the board.
At its launch, Trump officials unveiled a vision of a new Gaza, brought back from the destruction of war with glittering new buildings. But Trump said that the enclave’s Hamas administration must first disarm.
Donald Trump (US PRESIDENT):
Many have said that if Hamas doesn't do what they promised they would do, and I think they probably will, but they were born with rifles in their hands. Literally born, the first day, they had a rifle put into their hands. But they have to give up their weapons, and if they don't do that, it's going to be the end of them.
REPORTER:
The war in Ukraine, now nearing its fourth year, is also on Trump’s mind.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Trump during the forum — and said things went well. He says Ukraine can’t sit on a Board of Peace where enemies like Russia are included. But even without the board’s involvement, there are signs of progress — with two rounds of US-Ukraine-Russia talks expected in the coming days.
But Zelenskyy had harsh words about his European allies’ military preparedness. And he also criticized countries — specifically Taiwan — for their alleged role in enabling Russia’s military.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy (UKRAINIAN PRESIDENT):
Too often, people hide behind the excuse that China helps Russia. Yes, it does. But not only China. Russia gets components from companies in Europe, the United States and Taiwan. Right now, many are investing in stability around Taiwan to avoid war. But can Taiwanese companies stop contributing electronics to Russia’s war?
REPORTER:
President Lai Ching-te says Taiwan stands with Ukraine—stressing that it’s donated aid, and that Taiwanese volunteers have died fighting on Ukraine’s side. He’s asking Zelenskyy to provide more information, and says Taiwan is willing to help.
Lai Ching-te (TAIWAN PRESIDENT):
We are willing to strengthen controls to stop products from entering Russia via third countries with their final destination hidden in order to protect Ukraine.
REPORTER:
As Trump departs Switzerland on Air Force One, this year’s turbulent summit at Davos is coming to an end. And now it’s up to world leaders to deliver on talk of progress toward ending some of the world’s thorniest conflicts.
