Donald Trump has set the stage for a contentious appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos, doubling down on his controversial geopolitical ambitions and trade threats just hours before his arrival.
Greenland Grab and Tariff Threats
In a move that has become a hallmark of his unconventional diplomacy, the former US president has reiterated his intention to acquire Greenland. He suggested European leaders would not "push back too much" against the proposal, stating bluntly, "We have to have it. They have to have this done."
Simultaneously, Trump has threatened to impose staggering 200% tariffs on French wine and champagne. This economic pressure appears designed to compel French President Emmanuel Macron to join a proposed Gaza "board of peace," a plan Trump is championing.
Trump's Shadow Over the Alpine Summit
Trump is expected to arrive in Davos on Wednesday, where his presence is already looming large over the annual gathering of global elites in the Swiss resort. According to Reuters, he is scheduled to meet with top business leaders following an address to the forum.
The news agency reports that CEOs from financial services, cryptocurrency, and consulting sectors have been invited to a private reception after Trump's forum speech. This underscores the significant, if polarising, influence he continues to wield in global business circles.
A Global Stage for World Leaders
Trump has utilised his Truth Social platform to amplify his message, posting an image of what he claims is a "note from President Emmanuel Macon [sic]". The note appears to show Macron writing, "I do not understand what you are doing in Greenland."
His arrival coincides with a packed schedule of high-level addresses at the World Economic Forum. Tuesday's programme features speeches from Macron himself, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Meanwhile, China is being represented by Vice-Premier He Lifeng, who is due to deliver an address, highlighting the continued geopolitical significance of the Davos summit despite Trump's headline-grabbing interventions.
The convergence of these world leaders sets the scene for a potentially explosive few days in the Alps, with Trump's combative style poised to challenge the forum's traditional diplomatic tone.
