In his second term, Donald Trump’s foreign policy has been characterised by emotional and aggressive threats, a departure from Theodore Roosevelt’s famous ‘speak softly and carry a big stick’ approach. At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Trump renewed his push to acquire Greenland, a territory of Denmark, using specious historical claims and threats of economic retaliation.
Trump argued that the US is owed Greenland because it defended the Arctic territory during World War II and ‘gave it back’ to Denmark, a claim that is factually incorrect. He also suggested that Nato allies have given the US ‘absolutely nothing in return’ for its contributions, dismissing the alliance’s Article 5 commitment, which was triggered after 9/11 when European members came to America’s aid.
Despite his aggressive rhetoric, Trump stated he would not use force to seize Greenland, contradicting earlier White House statements. However, he threatened to impose a 200% tariff on European wine and champagne, prompting the EU to retaliate with tariffs on American whiskey, a move that could affect Republican states.
Trump’s approach has rattled key allies, with his threats against Venezuela and Iran in his first term now seen as a precursor to potential action. While much of his bluster previously came to nothing, his second term has proven more interventionist, raising concerns about how far he will go in pressuring America’s closest partners.
