Putin proposes using frozen Russian assets to pay membership dues for Trump’s “Board of Peace”

On Jan. 21, Vladimir Putin proposed that Russia contribute $1 billion to Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” — with the money coming from Russian assets that are frozen in the United States. According to a report by the Interfax news agency, the idea was voiced at a meeting with members of Russia’s Security Council:

“Even now, before a decision is made on our membership and the functioning of the Board of Peace, taking into account Russia’s special relations with the Palestinian people, we could, I think, transfer one billion U.S. dollars to the Board of Peace from Russian assets frozen under the previous U.S. administration.”

Putin also said that the remaining funds could be used to rebuild territories affected by Russia’s war with Ukraine:

“Besides, the remaining funds from our own assets frozen in the United States could also be used to rebuild territories affected by the fighting after a peace treaty is concluded between Russia and Ukraine. This possibility is also being discussed with representatives of the U.S. administration.”

On Jan. 16, Trump announced the creation of a Board of Peace, inviting world leaders, including Putin, to join. Countries seeking permanent membership will be required to contribute at least $1 billion. The U.S. holds roughly $5 billion worth of frozen Russian assets.