Davos, Switzerland — President Donald Trump delivered a lengthy and confrontational address to business leaders and government officials at the 56th annual World Economic Forum in the Swiss Alps on Wednesday, raising eyebrows with sharp critiques of Europe and NATO.
Trump’s remarks underscored his view that the United States has been exploited by Europe and questioned why his prior attempt to gain control of Greenland met resistance. He criticized European leaders for what he described as unchecked migration and radical economic policies, while casting doubt on NATO’s willingness to defend the U.S.—despite the alliance having invoked its collective defense only at America’s request after 9/11.
Amid his broad-ranging grievances, there was a small note of reassurance: Trump stated he would not use military force to seize Greenland. Later, he announced via Truth Social that a “framework of a future deal” with Greenland had been reached following a meeting with NATO’s secretary general, and the tariffs he had threatened to impose on Europe were now off.
Here are five main takeaways from his Davos address:
1. No Military Action on Greenland
Trump’s four words, “I won’t use force,” provided relief to European leaders who feared a potential conflict over Greenland. Markets also reacted positively.
Yet Trump reiterated his stance that full ownership of Greenland remained his goal, calling the territory “our territory” and warning that the U.S. would remember nations that opposed him.
2. Historical Grievances on Display
Trump repeatedly cited history to justify his claims over Greenland, inaccurately referring to it as Iceland multiple times. He described Denmark as “ungrateful” for retaining control after the U.S. defended the territory during World War II, framing the issue as a long-standing American entitlement.
3. A Wide-Ranging List of Complaints
Trump used the speech to attack multiple nations and leaders. Switzerland was belittled as “only good because of us,” and he mocked French President Emmanuel Macron’s sunglasses and criticized Canada for perceived ingratitude. Domestically, he targeted Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and Representative Ilhan Omar, linking her to foreign cultures and framing the discussion around protecting Western values.
4. Audience Reaction and Tone
Initially, the packed room responded with laughter and mild applause, but as the hour-long speech progressed, attendees grew restless. Extended tangents on Greenland, wind energy, and domestic security measures prompted nervous laughter and occasional departures, while Trump himself wrapped up casually with, “I’ll see you around.”
5. A Europe He Claims to Disown
A central theme of the speech was Trump’s view that Europe had deviated from its historical path. He argued that without the U.S., European nations would struggle to function and expressed frustration at what he perceives as their lack of gratitude.
