The World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, was evacuated as a precautionary measure on Wednesday afternoon following reports of an 'unusual odour' that caused coughing among attendees. Emergency services were swiftly dispatched to the scene after the alarm was raised.
Fire Contained After Evacuation
Initial reports indicated that a fire had broken out on the premises, prompting the evacuation of part of the convention centre. A fire brigade spokesperson later confirmed that the flames were fully contained and completely extinguished after the precautionary measures were taken. No injuries were reported on the scene, according to official statements.
On-site journalists noted that specialised smoke divers were deployed shortly after attendees noticed the scent, to investigate potential smoke or other hazards. The fire is believed to have originated in a wooden hut near the hotel housing the conference centre, as reported by sources at the event.
Trump's Announcement on Greenland
Amidst the disruption, former US President Donald Trump made a significant announcement regarding a framework agreement with NATO leader Mark Rutte on Greenland. Taking to his Truth Social platform, Trump declared that he had reached a productive understanding that would benefit the United States and all NATO nations.
He stated: 'Based upon a very productive meeting that I have had with the Secretary General of NATO, Mark Rutte, we have formed the framework of a future deal with respect to Greenland and, in fact, the entire Arctic Region.'
As part of this development, Trump announced that tariffs threatened on eight European countries would not go into effect, citing the progress made in discussions. He emphasised that the deal aims to secure Arctic interests without the use of military force, walking back earlier aggressive rhetoric.
NATO's Response and Details
A NATO spokesperson later released a statement providing insight into the specifics of the framework referenced by Trump. The discussions among NATO allies will focus on ensuring Arctic security through collective efforts, particularly involving the seven Arctic Allies.
The spokesperson added: 'Negotiations between Denmark, Greenland, and the United States will go forward aimed at ensuring that Russia and China never gain a foothold - economically or militarily - in Greenland.'
Trump further indicated that more information about the deal and developments related to the 'Golden Dome' missile defence system would be released as discussions progress. He told reporters that the agreement meets all necessary objectives and has garnered widespread satisfaction among involved parties.
Context of the WEF Summit
The World Economic Forum, which began on January 20, has attracted hundreds of business leaders and government officials to Davos to discuss pressing global issues. The evacuation incident briefly overshadowed the summit's agenda, but proceedings are expected to resume following the all-clear from emergency services.
Trump's announcement at the forum highlighted ongoing geopolitical strategies, with his remarks likely easing tensions among European leaders gathered at the summit. He acknowledged that his clarification on not using military force for annexation probably brought relief, stating: 'That's probably the biggest statement I've made, because people thought I'd use force.'
