Trump addresses World Economic Forum in Davos

Days after his inauguration as the forty-seventh president of the United States, Donald Trump delivered a surprise guest address to delegates at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Dialling in from Washington, the president announced his intention to return to the international stage, launching a scathing attack on the European Union regarding its tax regime and regulatory policies. Trump remarked that the EU treats the United States unfairly and poorly.

On the eve of his return to the forum, Trump announced a fresh 10 per cent tariff on the exports of eight European nations, including the United Kingdom. This development comes amid heightened tensions in transatlantic relations, characterised by a year of imposing the highest tariffs on European goods in nearly a century. His threats coincide with increasing public sentiment in Europe that views the United States as a rival or enemy, with only a small percentage still considering it an ally.

Trump’s campaign to prioritise American interests has alienated traditional allies, allowing China to gain a competitive advantage in global public opinion. A substantial portion of Europeans, specifically twenty per cent, now perceive the United States as a rival, while only sixteen per cent view it as a reliable ally. This shift marks a significant turning point in international relations.

The upcoming meeting in Davos, under the leadership of interim chair Larry Fink following Klaus Schwab’s departure amid an investigation, will showcase a massive US delegation along with the attendance of global leaders. The prominence of Trump at the event highlights a notable departure from previous themes that have focused on gender diversity and climate change. This year, the organisers have tailored the agenda to accommodate the preferences of the current administration.

Significant support for Trump is expected from leaders in Europe, as the forum’s agenda is shaped by a prevailing “might is right” philosophy. This context adds complexity to existing geopolitical challenges, as Trump continues to leverage economic and security threats against European nations and others aligned with American interests.

With discussions around international cooperation at a critical juncture, the 2026 World Economic Forum is poised to address profound issues concerning geo-economic and technological transformations.

As America continues to navigate its place in international affairs, the implications of Trump’s presence in Davos will undoubtedly reverberate through the chambers of global power.