Think Tank Urges Trump, Xi, and Putin to Open Direct Crisis Talks

The appeal follows the Foundation’s January 2026 Nobel Peace Prize nomination of the three leaders, a move designed to force an opening of diplomatic channels. Founder Abraham A. van Kempen argues that the current geopolitical climate is defined by stagnation, where silence and escalation have replaced strategy. He contends that the leaders do not need to reach a consensus on every issue to prevent further loss of life, but must instead prioritize the restoration of military and nuclear-risk hotlines.

The proposed Great-Power Bridge Forum would serve as a standing mechanism to resume discussions on arms control, cyber-stability, and the regulation of artificial intelligence. Beyond security, the Foundation advocates for the protection of academic, cultural, and journalistic exchanges, alongside a push to stabilize international trade. Van Kempen warns that protectionism and supply-chain bottlenecks are actively eroding global trust, suggesting that economic stabilization could serve as a pressure valve for broader security conflicts. The Foundation remains prepared to renominate the three heads of state for the Nobel Prize next year should they demonstrate a commitment to these humanitarian and diplomatic goals.