DAVOS, Jan 23: US President Donald Trump dominated the World Economic Forum in Davos during a brief but high-profile visit that overshadowed traditional discussions among global leaders and business elites.
While executives focused on artificial intelligence, productivity gains and renewable energy investment, Trump seized attention on geopolitics, delivering a wide-ranging speech promoting America’s global role and drawing both praise and criticism.
Observers described “two Davoses”: one centred on industry and AI, and another driven by Trump’s foreign-policy agenda. Unlike earlier Davos appearances, Trump faced open criticism from figures such as California Governor Gavin Newsom, though NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised his efforts to end the war in Ukraine and strengthen Western defence.
Several leaders warned, however, that divisions between the US and its allies are deepening, with Canada’s prime minister describing a lasting “rupture.”
Trump also stirred controversy by threatening tariffs on European countries over Greenland, before abruptly backing down and announcing a new framework for Arctic security with NATO.
His proposal for a US-led “Board of Peace” to oversee a Gaza ceasefire drew mixed reactions, with supporters and critics questioning its feasibility and impact on the UN.
Meanwhile, AI remained a major theme, with tech leaders striking an optimistic tone on innovation, jobs and growth, reinforcing Davos’ message of dialogue and progress despite political drama.
Greenland annexation plan falters under Trump
Donald Trump’s threat to annex Greenland, once portrayed as imminent, now appears increasingly unlikely as political, military and economic pressures mount.
Public opposition in the US is overwhelming, with polls showing minimal support for military action, and Republican lawmakers warning it could end his presidency.
Diplomacy has stalled, buying Greenland is off the table, and Trump has begun walking back the use of force.
European allies have reinforced Greenland, raising the costs of any invasion and signalling potential retaliation.
With Congress, the military and allies resisting, Trump faces shrinking options, leaving his Greenland gambit on shaky ground and likely to fail.
Trump’s remarks on Afghanistan upset UK allies
US President Donald Trump sparked outrage in the UK after suggesting NATO troops, aside from Americans, stayed away from frontline combat during the Afghanistan war and questioning whether allies would support the US if needed.
British leaders, veterans and families of fallen soldiers strongly rejected his remarks, noting the UK’s major combat role and the loss of more than 450 British service members.
The comments revived anger over Trump’s repeated criticism of NATO and came amid wider tensions with Europe over Greenland and tariffs.
Critics called the remarks deeply insulting and damaging to trans-Atlantic relations. (Agencies)
