Donald Trump is believed to have disclosed a private message he received from French President Emmanuel Macron prior to threatening hefty tariffs on French wine and Champagne. Trump stated that these tariffs would pressure Macron to join his proposed “Board of Peace.” In response to Macron’s refusal to join the board, Trump commented that Macron would soon be out of office and hinted at imposing a 200% tariff on French wines and Champagnes. France has reportedly decided to decline the invitation to participate in the US-proposed initiative, according to a source close to Macron. Trump later claimed in a post on Truth Social that Macron had messaged him about Greenland before the tariff threats.
A screenshot revealed Macron expressing agreement with Trump on Iran and Syria issues but questioning Trump’s actions concerning Greenland. Macron also extended an invitation for a meeting with Trump and other G7 leaders after the World Economic Forum in Davos, along with a dinner invitation in Paris on Thursday.
The ‘Board of Peace’ was initially introduced last September to oversee the reconstruction of Gaza but has now evolved into a broader initiative aimed at resolving global conflicts, as outlined in invitations sent to world leaders last week. The draft calls for approximately 60 countries to contribute $1 billion in cash for membership lasting over three years.
Countries like Australia, Brazil, Cyprus, Egypt, Italy, Jordan, New Zealand, Pakistan, Turkey, and Vietnam have been invited to join the board. Trump also disclosed that he extended an invitation to Putin, who is reportedly contemplating acceptance.