US President Donald Trump has arrived at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where he is expected to face opposition from European leaders over his bid to acquire Greenland from Denmark. The autonomous Danish territory has become a point of contention between the US and Europe, with Trump threatening tariffs on European countries that back Denmark.
Trump’s visit to Davos comes after he mocked European leaders, saying he would “find out” how far he was prepared to go to acquire Greenland. The US president has argued that the territory is vital for US and NATO security, but European leaders have closed ranks against his aggressive stance. French President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to stand up against “bullies,” while the EU has promised an “unflinching” response.
The dispute over Greenland has opened up the biggest rift between Washington and Europe in decades, with some leaders warning that it could have significant consequences for the transatlantic alliance. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said that any move by the US against a fellow ally would be “the end of NATO.” Trump, however, has insisted that he has done “more for NATO than anyone” and questioned whether allies would help the US in times of need.
The US president is scheduled to deliver a speech at the World Economic Forum, where he is expected to focus on the US economy. However, the row over Greenland is likely to dominate the agenda, with Trump set to hold a number of meetings on the issue. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has warned that Trump’s actions risk plunging US ties with the EU into a “downward spiral.”
The situation has also sparked concerns about the potential use of military force, with Greenland’s prime minister saying that his population must be prepared for such an eventuality. The dispute has significant implications for global security and the future of the transatlantic alliance, with many leaders warning that it could have far-reaching consequences. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the US and Europe will navigate this complex and sensitive issue.
