Donald Trump is believed to have disclosed a private text message he received from French President Emmanuel Macron prior to his threat of imposing 200% tariffs on French wine and Champagne.
Trump suggested that the tariffs would pressure Macron to join his proposed “Board of Peace.” In response to Macron’s statement about not joining the board, Trump insinuated that Macron would soon be out of office and implied that imposing heavy tariffs on French wines and Champagnes would compel him to join, although he clarified that joining was not mandatory.
However, France is expected to decline the invitation to participate in the US-proposed initiative, as per a source close to Macron. Trump later claimed on Truth Social that Macron had messaged him about Greenland before the tariff threat.
A screenshot revealed Macron agreeing with Trump on issues related to Iran and Syria but expressing confusion about Trump’s actions concerning Greenland.
Allegedly, Macron also proposed arranging a meeting with Trump and other G7 leaders post the World Economic Forum in Davos, in addition to inviting Trump for dinner in Paris on Thursday.
The initial concept of the ‘Board of Peace’ was put forth in September to oversee the reconstruction of war-torn Gaza. However, Trump expanded its scope to include a broader role in resolving global conflicts, extending invitations to world leaders last week.
A draft circulated to roughly 60 nations calls for members to contribute $1 billion in cash for a membership lasting more than three years.
Countries such as Australia, Brazil, Cyprus, Egypt, Italy, Jordan, New Zealand, Pakistan, Turkey, and Vietnam have received invitations to join the board. Trump also mentioned extending an invitation to Putin, who is reportedly contemplating the offer.