U.S. President Donald Trump said he would impose a 200% tariff on French wines and champagnes after France declined to join his proposed Board of Peace on Gaza initiative.
Asked about French President Emmanuel Macron’s decision, Trump said, "Did he say that? Well, nobody wants him because he will be out of office very soon."
“I’ll put a 200% tariff on his wines and champagnes, and he’ll join, but he doesn’t have to join,” Trump added.
Donald Trump later published what he said was a private message from Emmanuel Macron on his social media platform, Truth Social.
The message, addressed to Trump and signed “Emmanuel,” said France and the U.S. were aligned on Syria and Iran, questioned U.S. actions on Greenland, and proposed a G7 meeting in Paris after Davos as well as a private dinner before Trump’s return to the U.S.
Macron's office cited concerns over the powers potentially extended to the Board and whether it would disrupt the work of the United Nations.
A statement, issued by the Elysée Palace, said the board's authority would go "beyond the framework of Gaza and raises serious questions, in particular with respect to the principles and structure of the United Nations, which cannot be called into question.”
France’s reluctance highlights growing unease among some European capitals about U.S.-led initiatives that they believe could sideline established international mechanisms, particularly the UN, in addressing the Gaza conflict and its aftermath.
The White House announced the formation of the Board of Peace on Friday (16 January), saying it would play a central role in implementing President Trump’s plan to permanently end the war in Gaza and oversee the reconstruction of the enclave. According to Washington, the board would provide strategic oversight, mobilise international resources and ensure accountability as Gaza moves from conflict toward recovery. Trump wants countries to pay $1 billion to gain permanent membership on the Board.
The U.S. administration also said it has set up a National Committee for the Administration of Gaza as part of phase two of Trump’s comprehensive plan, alongside an executive board structure intended to support governance and rebuilding efforts in the territory.
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Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for the 16th of February, covering the latest developments you need to know.
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