Canada
1Min
South Africa
Jan 23, 2026
Former US president Donald Trump has pulled Canada’s invitation to join a new global peace board, accusing Ottawa of insufficient support on key foreign policy issues. The move has sparked diplomatic concern, with Canadian leaders saying they remain committed to peace efforts despite the unexpected shift.
Former US president Donald Trump has rescinded Canada’s invitation to take part in a newly proposed international peace board, a decision that has drawn surprise and criticism from Canadian officials and diplomatic observers.
The move was announced on Thursday via a Trump campaign statement, which cited what his team described as Canada’s failure to back key elements of his foreign policy agenda. Trump, who is seeking another term in the 2026 US election, said the board is intended to promote strategic discussion on global conflict, but that Canada’s recent stances made its inclusion “untenable.”
“Canada’s leaders have not shown the level of support for our shared goals on peace and security,” the statement read, adding that invitations are an indication of alignment on core international priorities.
Canadian Prime Minister and foreign affairs officials responded by reaffirming Canada’s commitment to global peace processes and multilateral cooperation. They expressed disappointment but said Ottawa remains focused on working with partners around the world to address conflicts through diplomacy and international institutions.
Political analysts said the decision marks another flashpoint in an already strained relationship between Trump and Canadian leaders, particularly on issues such as defence spending, trade and diplomatic positions in international forums.
Trump’s proposal for a peace board was unveiled late last year as part of his broader foreign policy blueprint. The initiative aims to bring together selected countries to consult on responses to global crises and to coordinate humanitarian and diplomatic strategies. Critics, however, have questioned its structure, mandate and feasibility, suggesting that details remain vague.
In Ottawa, opposition figures called the reversal a diplomatic slight and urged the government to push back firmly, with some warning that such actions could have repercussions for bilateral cooperation on security, trade and regional initiatives.
Supporters of Trump’s decision argue that invitations to the peace board should reflect unwavering alignment on policy priorities, and that the move underscores a no-nonsense approach to alliance building.
For now, Canada’s place in the new board remains uncertain, and officials say they will continue to engage with the US and other partners to clarify the future of the initiative.
