A high-profile dinner at the World Economic Forum in Davos ended in disarray on Tuesday night after a speech by U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, which heavily criticised Europe, prompted heckling and walkouts. European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde was among those who reportedly left the event early.
The exclusive gathering, hosted by BlackRock CEO Larry Fink, brought together hundreds of forum members, heads of state, and dignitaries. According to sources, Mr Lutnick's combative remarks drew widespread jeering, with several guests exiting and Mr Fink appealing for calm before cutting the dinner short, before dessert was served.
The ECB declined to comment on the report, while the U.S. Commerce Department and the World Economic Forum did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and Europe, with President Donald Trump's demand to take over Greenland drawing fierce opposition from European leaders.
Speaking at Davos on Wednesday, Mr Trump called for 'immediate negotiations' to acquire Greenland, though he insisted he would not use force. He criticised Denmark for being 'ungrateful' for U.S. protection during the Second World War and argued that the Arctic island is part of North America, calling it 'our territory'.
