Donald Trump set a provocative tone with his hour-long speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on January 22, 2026. The former US president targeted both familiar and new adversaries, adopting a mocking tone as he delivered his remarks.
In a speech that often wandered, Trump criticized NATO and suggested that European allies would “all be speaking German and little Japanese” if not for US intervention. His comments about Canada, one of the US’s closest allies, were particularly striking, claiming it “lives because of the United States,” a statement that drew audible gasps from the audience.
International Reactions and Fallout
The speech, which seemed to target a wide array of subjects, prompted The New York Times to compile a list of “everything (and everyone) Trump assailed at Davos.” However, Trump was not the only American stirring controversy in Switzerland, where thousands of political and business leaders had gathered, including celebrities like Katy Perry and former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde made headlines by walking out of a private dinner after US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick criticized European economies. According to sources, Lutnick’s speech belittled Europe’s competitiveness compared to the US, causing discomfort among the attendees and prompting Lagarde’s departure.
“We are seeing the curtain come up on a new world order,” Lagarde later stated, emphasizing the need for Europe to rethink its economic strategies.
Diplomatic Tensions Escalate
Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom found himself at the center of a diplomatic spat after being denied entry to an event at the USA House in Davos. According to his office, the exclusion was due to pressure from the White House, escalating tensions between Trump and one of his prominent Democratic critics.
A White House spokeswoman dismissed Newsom as a “third-rate governor,” questioning his presence in Davos. Newsom, seen as a potential presidential contender in 2028, has positioned himself as an alternative to Trump, criticizing the administration’s policies and its failed attempt to acquire Greenland.
“I should have brought a bunch of kneepads for all the world leaders,” Newsom quipped earlier in the week, highlighting his disdain for what he perceives as weak responses to Trump’s policies.
Trump’s Broader Criticisms
Trump’s speech also included jabs at various international figures and institutions. He referred to Greenland as a “piece of ice” and mocked French President Emmanuel Macron for wearing aviator sunglasses during his own Davos address. Additionally, Trump criticized the US Federal Reserve and called for peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.
Despite the contentious nature of his remarks, Trump acknowledged California Governor Gavin Newsom’s presence, reminiscing about their past interactions. “I know Gavin was here. I used to get along so great with Gavin when I was president,” Trump said, adding a rare moment of levity to his otherwise combative speech.
Implications and Future Outlook
The events at Davos underscore the ongoing geopolitical tensions and the complexities of international diplomacy. As leaders navigate these challenges, the need for strategic alliances and economic collaboration becomes increasingly apparent. The reactions to Trump’s speech highlight the delicate balance of global power dynamics and the potential for significant shifts in international relations.
As the world continues to grapple with these issues, the implications of this year’s Davos discussions will likely resonate in policy decisions and diplomatic strategies in the months to come. Observers will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold and what they mean for the future of global cooperation.
