The Vatican has declined President Trump’s invitation to join his newly expanded ‘Board of Peace,’ citing concerns about bypassing the United Nations and questioning the board’s structure that gives Trump indefinite leadership.
Vatican Raises UN Concerns
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, announced that the Holy See remains “perplexed” by key aspects of Trump’s peace initiative. The cardinal emphasized that international crisis management should primarily fall under UN jurisdiction, not alternative bodies. Originally designed to oversee Gaza reconstruction, the board has expanded into a global peacekeeping organization with Trump serving as permanent chairman.
Parolin explained that the Vatican’s unique position differs from other nations, making participation inappropriate given the board’s particular structure. The announcement came during events marking the Lateran Pacts anniversary, which established Vatican City’s sovereignty nearly a century ago.
White House Pushes Back
The Trump administration expressed disappointment with the Vatican’s decision. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt called the rejection “deeply unfortunate,” arguing that peace efforts should transcend political divisions. She emphasized that dozens of member countries have joined the legitimate organization, making the Vatican’s absence particularly notable given Pope Leo XIV’s peace-focused papacy.
The Vatican joins Britain, France, and Norway in declining participation, while Italy and the European Union plan to attend as observers only.
Broader Diplomatic Tensions
Pope Leo XIV, America’s first pontiff, has prioritized peacemaking throughout his papacy while warning that “war is back in vogue.” The pope has consistently advocated for UN leadership in conflict resolution and adherence to international humanitarian law. His positions often contrast with Trump’s approach, particularly regarding immigration policies and international legal frameworks. The board’s inaugural meeting proceeds in Washington despite growing diplomatic resistance from traditional American allies and the Vatican’s moral authority.
SO DISAPOINTING FROM THE POPE……peace is so important….. WHATEVER IS YOUR OPPINION….(i am a catholic SO, WAS MY FAMILY all gone now, THEY WOULD DESAPROVE ALSO……
I believe the Pope is more concerned about peace than anything Trump has shown this country. The Trump “Board of Peace” is an oxymoron since Trump cannot keep the USA peaceful with all his hateful speech and harm to the citizens here in America.
What “harm” is he doing to citizens here? I see none whatsoever. The only way to keep the USA “peaceful” is to do everything the Democrats say. Not my idea of peace.
Well said
Surely the creation of the “Board of Peace” has a mission statement & expression of proceeedure.
Good journalism would have been to include such in the article.
Focusing on the politics of the Vatican decision is typical.
Hmmm peace yet the Vatican doesn’t want to at least attend and hear what is going to be offered?
As a Catholic, it is a foundational belief of the Church that our duty to God is to protect and care for ALL regardless of what crimes they commit and how many commandments they fail to follow-so criminals are to be treated the same as the Communicant. There is no way the Church can be Political and offer us the Safety and Security of a Civilized society where we are SAFE and Protected.