The following article reflects the views of Adrian Zuckerman, former United States Ambassador to Romania, on recent proposals and developments in transatlantic and global security discussions. Originally published in Romanian by Ziare.com, this English version is presented by Alianta to make Ambassador Zuckerman’s analysis accessible to an international audience interested in democratic values, strategic autonomy, and the future of U.S.–Europe relations.
The views expressed are those of the author.
Adrian Zuckerman on Trump’s “Peace Council”:
“Don’t Do What the Americans Would Like—Do What Is Right for Romania”
Former U.S. Ambassador to Romania Adrian Zuckerman has expressed deep skepticism regarding the usefulness of the new “Peace Council” promoted by former President Donald Trump, stating that he does not understand the rationale behind the creation of such a body.
Speaking on Antena 3 CNN, Zuckerman welcomed Romania’s decision not to rush into signing documents alongside the American leader at the Davos summit, describing Romania’s absence from the official ceremony as the correct move.
In this context, the former diplomat offered direct advice to Romania’s president, urging pragmatism and independence in foreign policy decision-making:
“I think it’s very good that Romania did not sign. My advice is this: look carefully at what the plan is for your country. Don’t do what you think the Americans would like—do what you believe is right for Romania.”
Zuckerman went on to outline his broader concerns:
“There are three things that need to be said. First, we do not understand this so-called peace plan. Second, with Greenland, Trump spoke about building a ‘Golden Dome.’ It’s an idea from the Reagan era, intended to protect America and others from bad actors who attack. But who are these bad actors? I can think of two—Iran, for one. And who remains in the axis of evil? Russia and China. Yet Russia is being invited in.
I don’t understand the people around Trump who say, ‘I met Putin, it was a great meeting—he’s a good man, a man of faith.’ How can anyone say that? If they truly believe it, they are living in a different reality. Putin is not a good man; he is a criminal. Zelensky is a modern-day Churchill. If he saved democracy in Ukraine, he is trying to save democracy in the rest of the world and must be supported at all costs.
There are also those who want another Yalta—another division into spheres of influence. Many say the Trump administration is transactional. But democracy is not transactional. It is not something we can buy or sell.”
Zuckerman added that if he were advising Romania’s president directly, his message would be straightforward:
“Look at the plan for Romania. Don’t do what you think the Americans would like—do what you believe is right for Romania. Strengthen the economy, improve the military, and move forward.”
When asked whether Romania should join Trump’s proposed “Peace Council,” the former ambassador reiterated that he does not fully understand what this new global body is intended to be.
“Maybe yes—but I don’t understand what it actually is. Is it about making peace and talking about Gaza? Is that all? Who makes the rules? Simply being a member of a committee doesn’t mean much. You don’t have to say no, and you don’t have to say yes. You have to evaluate carefully.
The reality is that there are many problems within the United Nations. But it is better to fix those problems than to abandon the system. The biggest problems at the UN come from Russia and China.”
Zuckerman concluded with a recommendation directed at the former U.S. president:
“My suggestion for Trump is to work with democratic allies in Europe and move forward together—not to pursue separation.”
