US President Donald Trump has warned of a 200% tariff on French wines and champagnes in a sharp escalation linked to his proposed global peace initiative.
The move comes after reports said France might not join Trump’s newly announced Board of Peace, a platform aimed at resolving international conflicts through coordinated diplomacy.
The president tied the tariff threat directly to French President Emmanuel Macron’s position.
Trump suggested that imposing steep duties would compel France to cooperate. He said Macron would end up joining the board but insisted the choice was entirely his.
France is currently expected to decline the invitation. According to a Reuters report, the country has no intention of participating at this time, despite receiving formal outreach from the US administration.
Trump expands peace plan beyond Gaza
Trump first introduced the Board of Peace in September during his remarks on ending the Gaza war.
But recent invitations sent to about 60 nations show a wider ambition. The board would now address global conflict resolution, not just the Middle East or any one specific region.
A draft charter circulated by the US administration to roughly 60 countries would require members to contribute $1 billion in cash to secure membership lasting longer than three years, according to a document reviewed by Reuters.
This condition appears to have caused hesitation among invited states and policymakers.
Global response cautious
Reactions over the weekend reflected concern from diplomats.
Some expressed worry that the initiative could interfere with or duplicate the work of the United Nations, which already oversees international peacekeeping efforts and conflict mediation in critical zones.
Governments are assessing the proposal carefully.
While some may consider joining, the financial and political implications of the membership terms have slowed momentum among key allies and neutral states alike.
Putin also receives invitation
On Monday, Trump confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin has been invited to take part in the initiative.
No response has been announced, but the invitation adds a new dimension to the proposed board’s potential makeup and influence.
Meanwhile, Trump dismissed concerns over Macron’s refusal, suggesting the French leader may not remain in office for long.
He brushed off the rejection, stating that Macron did not have to join, but would do so once the tariffs took effect and pressure mounted.
The tariff threat targets one of France’s key exports.
French wines and champagnes enjoy strong sales in the US market, and a steep increase in duties could have a wide economic impact.
It also raises the stakes in what is shaping up to be a geopolitical standoff over Trump’s international proposal.
It remains unclear how the board would operate alongside existing diplomatic bodies, or whether it would gain enough support to formally launch in the coming months.
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