A prestigious dinner at the World Economic Forum in Davos descended into chaos and was abruptly cut short following a combative speech by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick that sparked widespread heckling and prompted several high-profile walkouts.
Lagarde Leads Walkouts During Scathing Address
European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde was among the notable attendees who reportedly left the exclusive BlackRock-hosted event during what sources described as a particularly scathing passage of Lutnick's address on Tuesday evening. The US Commerce Secretary's remarks, which were heavily critical of Europe, prompted immediate disruption from the assembled dignitaries.
BlackRock Event Ends Prematurely
The gathering, hosted by BlackRock CEO and WEF co-chairman Larry Fink, brought together hundreds of major forum members, heads of state, and other international dignitaries. Following the escalating disruption and subsequent departures, Fink reportedly concluded the dinner prematurely, before dessert was served, according to sources present at the event.
Reports indicate there was significant uproar following Lutnick's combative remarks, with widespread jeering, guests exiting the venue, and appeals for calm from Fink himself. The Financial Times corroborated that Lutnick was heckled during the event, though specific details of his comments or the hecklers' responses remain undisclosed.
Official Responses and Silence
The European Central Bank has declined to comment on the reported incident. Similarly, the US Commerce Department and the World Economic Forum did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the chaotic conclusion to what was intended to be a high-level diplomatic gathering.
Trump's Greenland Comments Add to Tensions
The Davos tensions were further amplified on Wednesday when US President Donald Trump addressed the forum, calling for "immediate negotiations" for the United States to acquire Greenland. Trump insisted he would not use force to acquire the territory, stating: "I don't have to use force. I don't want to use force. I won't use force."
However, the president's remarks about Greenland have been met with fierce opposition from European leaders. Trump argued that the "enormous unsecured island is actually part of North America" and should be considered US territory for national security purposes. He also criticised Denmark for being "ungrateful" for US protection of the Arctic island during the Second World War.
The combination of Lutnick's critical speech and Trump's territorial claims has created a particularly charged atmosphere at this year's World Economic Forum, highlighting growing transatlantic tensions and diplomatic sensitivities at the highest levels of global governance.
