California's Democratic Governor, Gavin Newsom, has launched a scathing attack on international leaders, branding them as "pathetic" and "complicit" for their failure to confront former US President Donald Trump.
A Furious Wake-Up Call in Davos
Speaking on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos on 20 January 2026, the outspoken governor issued a furious wake-up call to America's allies. He condemned what he described as their servile and embarrassing approach to diplomacy with Trump, who is expected to arrive at the forum imminently.
Newsom's presence at the elite gathering is widely seen as an effort to counter-programme Trump's visit. He did not hold back in his assessment of how European leaders, in particular, have handled relations with the controversial figure.
'Have a Backbone': Newsom's Blunt Assessment
"It is time to get serious, and stop being complicit," Newsom told reporters. He slammed the stark contrast between what officials say about Trump in private and how they act towards him in public. "This guy's playing folks for fools," he asserted. "I mean, everybody's talking behind his back. They're laughing at him, and meanwhile, they're sucking up to him."
The governor urged a unified and principled stand, drawing a parallel with what he has witnessed in US politics. "I've seen this in the United States, a supine congress playing both sides. Saying one thing on a text or tweet and another thing publicly. It's time to have principles. It's time to stand tall and strong and stand united."
His criticism grew even more colourful and pointed as he continued: "I can't take this complicity. People rolling over. I should have brought a bunch of knee-pads for all the world leaders. I mean, handing out crowns, and handing out... Nobel Prizes, they're being given away. It's just pathetic."
The 'T-Rex' Diplomacy Warning
Newsom saved his most vivid metaphor for last, offering a stark warning about the nature of engaging with Donald Trump. "Diplomacy with Donald Trump? He's a T-Rex," Newsom declared. "You mate with him or he devours you. One or the other. The Europeans could be [devoured] if they continue down this process."
He expressed frustration that this conversation was not had a year ago, suggesting that the current geopolitical price is a direct result of inaction. "It's exactly what any objective observer would have anticipated where we are today," Newsom concluded, imploring leaders to finally "have a backbone."
