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By Amanda Castro, Hannah Parry, Brendan Cole, Shane Croucher, John Feng, and Joshua Rhett Miller

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NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that "there’s still a lot of work to be done" on the Greenland deal, after President Donald Trump announced a new framework following their talks in Davos, Switzerland. Rutte told Fox News that he and Trump had not discussed the U.S. taking control of Greenland, adding that the issue "did not come up any more in my conversation." But he said he had agreed with Trump that "collectively we have to protect the Arctic regions." “He is very much focused on, what do we need to do to make sure that that huge Arctic region — where change is taking place at the moment, where the Chinese and Russians are more and more active — how we can protect it. That was really the focus of our discussions," Rutte said.

Earlier Wednesday, Trump announced that he and Rutte had outlined a deal for Greenland and the "entire Arctic Region." He also said he was dropping his plans to impose tariffs on eight European countries, following the successful talks. The Trump administration had been planning to introduce the new tariffs on February 1 unless those eight nations allowed the United States to acquire Greenland.

What To Know

• Trump used his Davos speech to deliver his clearest rejection yet of military force in acquiring Greenland, while pressing for full U.S. ownership of the Arctic island.
• His remarks mixed direct appeals, repeated references to “a piece of ice,” and sharp skepticism of NATO’s reliability.
• Trump said he “won’t use force” to annex Greenland, calling it his “biggest statement.”
• He insisted the U.S. seeks “right title and ownership” of Greenland, not a lease.
• Trump repeatedly confused Greenland with Iceland, citing “Iceland” four times.
• He linked a recent stock market dip to “Iceland,” though he meant Greenland.
• Trump described Greenland as “a large piece of ice in the middle of the ocean.”
• He questioned NATO’s commitment to defending the U.S., saying he’s “not sure they’d be there.”
• Trump warned allies: “Say yes, and we will be appreciative. Say no, and we will remember.”
• Article 5 of NATO, invoked only once after 9/11, obligates members to defend one another.

Newsweek's live blog is closed.

Jan 21, 2026 at 08:01 PM EST

White House defends Trump’s Davos speech amid mixed reactions

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt moved quickly Wednesday to defend President Donald Trump’s remarks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, insisting his speech drew “rave reviews” despite criticism from European officials and reports of confusion in the room.

Leavitt told Fox News that world leaders were “very pleased” with Trump’s performance, saying he “just tells it like it is.” But BBC reporters noted the audience struggled to absorb Trump’s comments on Greenland, where he repeatedly confused the territory with Iceland.

Denmark’s foreign minister reiterated that the country would not shift its “red lines” on Greenland, voicing concern over Trump’s continued push for U.S. control.

Leavitt rejected claims of misstatements, writing on X that Trump had merely referred to Greenland as “a piece of ice.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 07:52 PM EST

Davos outlines how religion will be ‘taken over’

Yuval Harari, the author of the books Sapiens and Home Deus, warned that religion will be "taken over" while speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

"What happens to the religion of a book when the greatest expert of the holy book is AI?" Harari said.

A clip of Harari speaking at Davos about AI and religion has quickly picked up online, amassing 1.2 million views as of reporting.

"As far as putting words in order is concerned, AI already thinks better than many of us. Therefore, anything made of words will be taken over by AI," he says in the clip.

"If laws are made of words, then AI will take over the legal system. If books are just combinations of words, then AI will take over books. If religion is built from words, then AI will take over religion," Harari said, before adding that this "is particularly true of religions based on books, like Islam, Christianity, or Judaism."

Read in full: Davos Outlines How Religion Will Be ‘Taken Over’

Jan 21, 2026 at 07:47 PM EST

Lagarde says Europe faces ‘wake-up call’ amid US tensions

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde warned Wednesday that rising tensions with the United States represent “a wake-up call, a bigger one than we’ve ever had.”

Speaking with CNN’s Richard Quest at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Lagarde said Europe must reassess its position and prepare to stand more independently. “Europe is going to do a big SWOT analysis and decide what do we need to do to be strong by ourselves,” she said.

View this post on X

Jan 21, 2026 at 07:44 PM EST

NATO chief says he did not discuss control of Greenland with Trump

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte told Fox News that he and President Donald Trump had not discussed the U.S. taking control of Greenland during their Davos meeting.

“That issue did not come up any more in my conversation” he said on Wednesday evening. Trump had announced that he and Rutte had outlined a deal for Greenland and the "entire Arctic Region" during their talks in Switzerland on Wednesday.

Rutte did not elaborate on the deal framework but said that he had agreed with Trump that "collectively we have to protect the Arctic regions."

“He is very much focused on, what do we need to do to make sure that that huge Arctic region — where change is taking place at the moment, where the Chinese and Russians are more and more active — how we can protect it. That was really the focus of our discussions," Rutte said.

“But also, of course, the U.S. continue its conversations with Greenland and Denmark when it comes to how can we make sure that the Russians and China will not gain access to the economy or a military sense of Greenland?” Rutte added.

Jan 21, 2026 at 07:38 PM EST

Trump Calls Greenland Deal ‘Ultimate Long-Term Agreement’

President Donald Trump on Wednesday said the framework of a proposed deal on Greenland “gives us everything we needed to get,” describing it as an arrangement that leaves “everybody very happy.”

Speaking to reporters in Davos, Trump characterized the plan as “the ultimate long-term deal,” emphasizing its importance for security and access to minerals. He added that the agreement would have “no time limit” and was intended to last “forever.”

Trump noted he had spoken with European leaders about the proposal but acknowledged that no formal agreement has yet been signed.

Jan 21, 2026 at 07:30 PM EST

Newsom’s office brands Stephen Miller a ‘total beta’

California Governor Gavin Newsom's office has called senior Trump aide Stephen Miller a "total beta" over his alleged behavior at the Davos economic forum.

"Stephen Miller refused to even make eye contact with @CAGovernor Gavin Newsom backstage at Davos," Newsom's press office said on X. "Total beta."

View this post on X

Jan 21, 2026 at 07:24 PM EST

Trump says Putin will join Gaza ‘Board of peace’

President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to join his proposed “Board of Peace,” the international body he envisions to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction.

Asked by CNN’s Kaitlan Collins why he would extend the invitation, Trump said, “Because we want everybody. We want all nations. We want all nations where people have control, people have power, that way we are never going to have a problem. This is the greatest board ever assembled.”

Trump acknowledged the decision would be controversial. “Yeah, I have some controversial people on it, but these are people that get the job done,” he said. “So he was invited. He’s accepted.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 07:19 PM EST

Republican rebukes Trump on Greenland, Ukraine after Impeachment warning

Representative Don Bacon of Nebraska has continued his criticism of President Donald Trump's push to acquire Greenland and his handling of the Russia-Ukraine war.

In the past week, the Republican also suggested Trump's approach to Greenland could prompt impeachment calls.

Newsweek contacted Bacon for comment via email on Wednesday.

Bacon has continued to ramp up his rhetoric against the "America First" president, calling out his foreign policy positions. On Tuesday, Bacon shared on X a screenshot of an image the president posted on Truth Social.

The apparently AI-generated photo showed Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio carrying an American flag next to a sign that said, "Greenland—U.S. Territory. Est. 2026."

View this post on X

Jan 21, 2026 at 07:11 PM EST

Denmark welcomes Trump’s tariff reversal, warns on Greenland plans

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen on Wednesday called President Donald Trump’s decision not to impose tariffs or use force to acquire Greenland a positive step, saying it could reopen the door to constructive talks with Washington.

Speaking after Trump announced a framework for a potential deal on the Arctic territory, Rasmussen expressed cautious optimism but noted Denmark remains opposed to U.S. ambitions for sovereignty. He stressed that any resolution must respect the will of Greenland’s people, who govern the island as a semiautonomous part of the Danish kingdom.

...

Jan 21, 2026 at 06:58 PM EST

Putin says he’s undecided on joining Board of Peace

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that he has not yet made a decision on joining the Board of Peace, after his invitation from Donald Trump.

Putin thanked Trump for the invitation and said Russia’s Foreign Ministry would consult with “strategic partners" to review it.

Trump has faced backlash for inviting the Russian leader, who waged war on neighboring Ukraine since 2022. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper responded to the invitation, saying, “Putin is not a man of peace, and I don’t think he belongs in any organization with peace in the name.”

However, Trump has pushed back, saying he wanted to include powerful world leaders on the board. “I have some controversial people," he said. "But these are people that get the job done. These are people that have tremendous influence.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 06:56 PM EST

EU to hold emergency summit despite Trump dropping tariff threat: Report

European Union leaders will proceed with an emergency summit on Thursday even after President Donald Trump announced he would not impose planned tariffs on six member states, an EU spokesperson told Reuters.

Trump had threatened to levy a 10 percent duty on goods from several European countries beginning February 1, escalating tensions over his push to acquire Greenland. His reversal came after talks with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, where he said a framework for a future Arctic deal had been reached.

Jan 21, 2026 at 06:40 PM EST

WATCH: Trump confuses Iceland and Greenland multiple times in Davos speech

Jan 21, 2026 at 06:31 PM EST

Donald Trump insults European leaders in Davos address

President Donald Trump took a dig at European leaders during his address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on Wednesday.

Trump criticized European leaders whom he said have allowed their countries to become unrecognizable during his address on Wednesday. He criticized them over their approaches to economic and immigration issues.

Read speech in full here.

Jan 21, 2026 at 06:26 PM EST

Trump calls Greenland plan ‘infinite’ deal with Europe

President Donald Trump on Wednesday described his push for a Greenland agreement with European leaders as “the ultimate long-term deal,” telling a CNN reporter the arrangement would have no expiration.

Asked whether the plan still envisioned U.S. ownership of the semiautonomous Danish territory, Trump paused before replying, “It’s a long-term deal. It’s the ultimate long-term deal.” Pressed on how long that meant, he added, “Infinite. There is no time limit. It’s a deal that’s forever.”

The remarks underscore Trump’s continued insistence that Greenland must come under U.S. control, even as European leaders have rejected the idea and warned of consequences for transatlantic relations.

Jan 21, 2026 at 06:09 PM EST

Analyst warns Europe faces high costs if US ties fracture

Europe risks losing vital military, technological and economic support if relations with the United States rupture, Christine Nissen of Copenhagen’s Think Tank Europa told Al Jazeera.

Nissen said Europe’s reliance on U.S. defense, intelligence, energy flows and financial networks has long discouraged confrontation. “In the short term, Europe cannot meaningfully decouple without real capability and economic costs,” she noted.

Rather than a sudden break, Nissen predicted a gradual shift as Europe diversifies trade partnerships and strengthens production of critical goods. She pointed to recent moves toward reducing single‑supplier dependence, expanding partnerships and bolstering resilience in defense, technology and energy.

“The logic is not decoupling from the US, but lowering vulnerability and increasing European room for manoeuvre over time,” Nissen said.

Jan 21, 2026 at 06:00 PM EST

Putin so Trump’s push to acquire Greenland ‘doesn’t concern us’

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that President Donald Trump's push to acquire Greenland "doesn’t concern us at all.”

Speaking at the Security Council meeting, Putin said that the United States had a history of acquiring land from other countries, including its purchase of Alaska from Russia.

The U.S. bought Alaska from Russia on March 30, 1867, with the treaty signed by Secretary of State William H. Seward and Russian Minister Baron Edouard de Stoeckl for $7.2 million.

Jan 21, 2026 at 05:54 PM EST

France rebuts Trump’s claim on drug prices, calls it ‘fake news’

The French presidency on Wednesday rejected President Donald Trump’s assertion that he pressured Emmanuel Macron to raise domestic drug prices, insisting costs have remained “stable.”

“It is being claimed that President @EmmanuelMacron increased the price of medicines,” the Élysée wrote on X. “He does not set their prices. They are regulated by the social security system and have, in fact, remained stable. Anyone who has set foot in a French pharmacy knows this.”

The post was accompanied by a GIF of Trump labeled “fake news.”

Trump, speaking earlier at the World Economic Forum in Davos, claimed he had threatened France with tariffs “unless prices were doubled or tripled.” French officials dismissed the statement as inaccurate and politically motivated.

Jan 21, 2026 at 05:47 PM EST

NATO Chief: Still ‘lot of work to be done’ on Greenland deal

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that "there’s still a lot of work to be done" on the Greenland deal, after President Donald Trump announced a new framework following their talks in Davos, Switzerland.

“I think it was a very good meeting tonight," Rutte told AFP after sitting down with Trump. "But there’s still a lot of work to be done."

Earlier Wednesday, Trump announced that he and Rutte had outlined a deal for Greenland and the "entire Arctic Region" during their talks. He also said he was dropping his plans to impose tariffs on eight European countries, following the successful talks. The Trump administration had been planning to introduce the new tariffs on February 1 unless those eight nations allowed the United States to acquire Greenland.

...

Jan 21, 2026 at 05:39 PM EST

Tillis calls Trump’s Greenland stance ‘disrespectful,’ warns of NATO strain

Sen. Thom Tillis on Wednesday criticized President Donald Trump’s posture toward Denmark and Greenland, calling it “disrespectful” in light of Danish sacrifices alongside U.S. forces in Afghanistan.

Speaking with CNN’s Jake Tapper, the North Carolina Republican recalled visiting a Danish war memorial and questioned how families of fallen soldiers might view Trump’s rhetoric. “This is just not the way to keep the free world together,” Tillis said, adding that the president’s approach was “unproductive” and “unsustainable.”

Tillis credited Trump for pressing NATO allies to boost defense spending but faulted him for broad attacks on member nations and for casting doubt on their willingness to honor Article V obligations. He said the speech was a “missed opportunity” to reinforce unity.

The senator warned that the turmoil benefits adversaries, noting “the only people happy with the tumult in NATO right now are China’s Xi Jinping and Russia’s Vladimir Putin.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 05:26 PM EST

Trump touts crime crackdown, praises law enforcement at Davos

President Donald Trump on Wednesday highlighted his administration’s aggressive policing strategy during a reception with business leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, boasting of record crime statistics and praising “tough, smart and patriotic” law enforcement.

Trump cited Washington, D.C., Memphis and Louisiana as examples of cities where federal intervention had produced results, while urging greater cooperation from local officials. He claimed, without evidence, that some Democratic mayors were privately asking for federal help, saying he would deploy “about 1,000 troops” if requested to quickly “get rid of the criminals.”

The president also pointed to the visible presence of security forces in major cities as proof of his approach. His remarks came as Minnesota has become the latest flashpoint in the administration’s nationwide immigration enforcement crackdown.

Jan 21, 2026 at 05:20 PM EST

WATCH: Trump confronted with huge ‘no kings’ message at Davos

Jan 21, 2026 at 05:11 PM EST

Fact-check: Trump’s Davos speech on Greenland, NATO and economy

President Donald Trump used his World Economic Forum address in Switzerland to rebuke European allies and renew his push to acquire Greenland, while repeating several misleading claims about history, NATO, and the U.S. economy.

Trump wrongly suggested the United States once “gave Greenland back” to Denmark after World War II. In reality, Washington only secured base rights under a 1941 defense pact, while repeatedly affirming Danish sovereignty in subsequent agreements. Historians note the U.S. never held legal authority over the island.

On NATO, Trump claimed America had been paying “virtually 100 percent” of the alliance’s costs and that members now contribute 5 percent of GDP. In fact, U.S. contributions to NATO’s common budget have fallen to 15 percent, and while allies pledged in 2014 to reach 2 percent of GDP by 2024, the 5 percent target agreed last year will not take effect until 2035. No country has yet met it.

Trump also dismissed NATO’s value, saying the U.S. had “gotten nothing” from the alliance. That is false: NATO invoked Article 5 after the Sept. 11 attacks, deploying forces in support of America’s war on terror and sending tens of thousands of troops to Afghanistan.

Beyond NATO and Greenland, Trump repeated familiar inaccuracies, including exaggerated investment figures, false claims about Social Security taxes, China’s wind power, grocery and drug prices, and U.S. immigration.

Jan 21, 2026 at 05:01 PM EST

Greenland lawmaker reacts to Trump’s deal framework announcement – says NATO has no right to negotiate on country’s behalf

A Greenland lawmaker has said that President Donald Trump's statements that he and NATO chief Mark Rutte had created a deal framework for Greenland were "completely crazy."

Aaja Chemnitz said that NATO "in no way has a sole mandate to negotiate anything without us from Greenland."

“Nothing about us, without us.”

Chemnitz added that it was “completely out of the question” that NATO had anything to say about “our country and our minerals.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 04:55 PM EST

Trump floats paying for Greenland, emphasizes security imperative

President Donald Trump said Wednesday he could envision offering money for Greenland, days after ruling out military force to acquire the semiautonomous Danish territory.

“I could see that,” Trump said when asked if there was a price he would pay, before stressing that the larger issue was “the price of safety, national security, I mean international security.”

Denmark has repeatedly insisted Greenland is not for sale, but Trump argued U.S. control was imperative. “It’s going to be safer, it’s going to be stronger, it’s going to be better for Europe, and it’s going to be better for us,” he said.

Pressed on potential consequences for nations opposing his bid, Trump declined to elaborate, saying only, “You’ll have to figure that out for yourself.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 04:40 PM EST

Rutte praises Trump for pushing NATO allies on defense spending

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Wednesday praised President Donald Trump for pressing European nations and Canada to increase their defense contributions, calling the effort a turning point for the alliance.

Speaking at a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Rutte said there had long been “one irritant” in NATO’s history—that Europeans were not paying at the same level as the United States. He credited Trump with driving the 2025 pledge that commits NATO members to spend 5 percent of GDP on defense or security by 2035.

Rutte also acknowledged the sacrifices made by NATO countries in Afghanistan, noting the alliance had borne a high human cost fighting alongside U.S. forces. He assured Trump that the United States has an “absolute guarantee” of allied support if attacked, underscoring NATO’s collective defense commitment.

Jan 21, 2026 at 04:27 PM EST

Stoltenberg welcomes Trump’s pledge on Greenland, urges respect for sovereignty

Norwegian Finance Minister and former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said it was “important” that President Donald Trump ruled out using military force to annex Greenland, calling the assurance a key step in easing allies' fears.

“Of course, that is an important message,” Stoltenberg told CNN’s Richard Quest, noting that many had worried Trump might threaten military action to acquire the Arctic territory. He added that Greenland and Denmark’s “territorial integrity should be respected by all.”

Stoltenberg also cautioned politicians to be mindful of private communications, remarking that “it may become public.” His warning followed Trump’s disclosure of text messages from several leaders earlier this week, including Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Jan 21, 2026 at 04:17 PM EST

Trump tells business execs in Davos he’s made them richer during second term

President Donald Trump told an audience of wealthy business executives at the Davos economic forum that he no longer asked how people were doing, because "everybody is making so much money.”

“A couple of people in the room, I can’t stand them. And they’ve become very rich. There’s nothing I can do about it,” Trump added.

The president's comments come as many Americans are facing an affordability crisis amid soaring costs for essentials like housing, groceries, healthcare, and childcare outpace wage growth.

Jan 21, 2026 at 04:13 PM EST

Rasmussen warns Trump’s Greenland push could sink NATO

Former Danish Prime Minister and NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said President Donald Trump’s pursuit of Greenland risks fracturing the transatlantic alliance. Speaking on CNN’s Early Start, Rasmussen described the dispute as “a painful process,” noting his lifelong admiration for the United States but warning that Europe may be forced to become more independent if tensions escalate.

Rasmussen cautioned that any U.S. military action against Greenland would mean “the end of NATO,” arguing that such a move would undermine the very purpose of collective defense. He said Russian President Vladimir Putin “hopes that Greenland can be the iceberg that sinks NATO,” with China also poised to benefit from a transatlantic split.

To address U.S. concerns without ceding sovereignty, Rasmussen proposed three steps: renewing the 1951 defense agreement between Denmark and Washington to strengthen NATO’s Arctic presence, securing private investment in Greenland’s rare earth minerals, and creating a resilience compact to block Chinese and Russian influence in critical infrastructure.

Jan 21, 2026 at 04:01 PM EST

Lindsey Graham backs Trump’s push to acquire Greenland, while criticizing NATO allies as ‘weak and humorless’

Sen. Lindsey Graham has backed President Donald Trump's efforts for the U.S. to acquire Greenland "through a lawful and fair process," adding that America would then fortify the Arctic "like no one could have ever imagined.”

He claimed that Europe had failed to "stand up to evil," and blasted America's European allies as being "weak and humorless”.

“The European model of giving great speeches then sipping schnapps, all while failing to stand up to evil doesn’t work,” said Graham on X. “Our European allies should take this moment in history to work with President Trump to legally and fairly provide the US title to Greenland so that he can build up our arctic defenses in a way that benefits everyone.”

“To my friends in Denmark: This is your moment to advance a stronger NATO,” he added.

Jan 21, 2026 at 03:59 PM EST

Former Michigan mayor says Trump softened Greenland rhetoric

Ethan Baker, a former Republican candidate and mayor of Troy, Michigan, said President Donald Trump appeared to temper his remarks on Greenland after bipartisan concerns about the possibility of the territory being taken by force.

Baker urged Trump to explicitly rule out military action, but added, “I believe him,” and “I don’t think he was ever planning to use force.” He described Trump’s sweeping statements as a tactic to “move the needle” and spark debate, though he acknowledged the president “probably went a little too far” in this case.

According to Baker, Trump has since shifted his messaging to emphasize Greenland’s security, arguing the United States should take a leading role in the Arctic amid growing competition from Russia and China.

Jan 21, 2026 at 03:46 PM EST

Trump invites Pope Leo XIV to join ‘Board of peace’

President Donald Trump has extended an invitation to Pope Leo XIV to join his newly created “board of peace,” the international body tasked with overseeing Gaza’s post‑war transition, Vatican officials confirmed Wednesday.

Speaking to reporters in Rome, Secretary of State Pietro Parolin said the Vatican had received the invitation and was weighing its response. “We are researching, and I believe it’s a question that demands a little time to be considered in order to give a response,” Parolin said.

The board, unveiled as part of Trump’s Gaza peace plan, features a three‑tier governing structure that places Trump and pro‑Israel officials at the top, while Palestinians are limited to municipal responsibilities. The invitation to the pontiff underscores Trump’s effort to lend global legitimacy to the initiative, though its framework has already drawn criticism for sidelining the Palestinian Authority.

Jan 21, 2026 at 03:37 PM EST

Trump says Greenland deal framework ‘pretty soon,’ ownership unclear

President Donald Trump on Wednesday said the framework of a deal concerning Greenland would be released “pretty soon,” describing negotiations as “a little bit in progress” but “pretty far along.”

Speaking to reporters, Trump claimed the agreement “gets us everything we needed to get,” though he declined to specify whether the deal would involve U.S. ownership of the semiautonomous Danish territory.

Jan 21, 2026 at 03:30 PM EST

WATCH: Trump says US should get Greenland after years of funding NATO

Jan 21, 2026 at 03:17 PM EST

Business leaders react to Trump’s Greenland comments at Davos

Peter Schiff, the chief economist at Euro Pacific Asset Management, said on Wednesday that it appeared that "cooler heads prevailed at the White House" after President Donald Trump said that he would not take Greenland by force, during his Davos speech.

"So if the US can't buy Greenland instead of taking it by military force, Trump will just hold a grudge," Schiff added on X. "While that is a major improvement, it also means that if we do succeed in buying Greenland, we'll massively overpay."

Citadel's CEO and founder Ken Griffin told CBNC's Squawk Box on Wednesday that Trump had delivered an "important message" to Europe that it needed to step up its economic growth. Another "foundational statement" Trump had made as a justification to why the U.S. needed Greenland, was the question if Europe would be there for America if it got involved in another war.

However, Griffin warned that if Trump changed his mind and decided to "pursue this path" then it should be "thoughtfully" laid out to try and avoid rattling the stock market.

"Investors around the world do not want to see an escalation of the stress in global trade that has played out over the last 12 months," the Citadel CEO added.

View this post on X

Jan 21, 2026 at 03:14 PM EST

Farage defends UK’s NATO role, rebukes Trump’s comments

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage on Wednesday rejected President Donald Trump’s assertion that the United States has never benefited from NATO, insisting Britain has “more than done our bit.”

Speaking in Davos after Trump’s remarks, Farage said he agreed with much of the president’s criticism of burden‑sharing but objected to his dismissal of allied contributions. He cited the war in Afghanistan, noting the UK fought alongside the U.S. for two decades, spent proportionally similar sums, and endured comparable losses. Farage added that Denmark and other allies had made sacrifices on the same scale.

His comments came as Prime Minister Keir Starmer told Parliament he “will not yield” on Greenland’s future under threats of tariffs, after Trump warned of levies on European nations opposing his plan to acquire the territory.

Jan 21, 2026 at 02:58 PM EST

EU nations unite against Trump’s Greenland tariff threats

President Donald Trump’s latest push to acquire Greenland has triggered a sharp response from Europe. In a January 17 post on Truth Social, Trump announced that beginning February 1, exports from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland would face a 10 percent tariff. He said the levy would rise to 25 percent on June 1 unless Denmark agreed to a “Complete and Total purchase” of Greenland.

The following day, all 27 European Union members convened for an emergency meeting. In a joint statement, the eight nations directly targeted by Trump’s plan declared they “stand in full solidarity” with Denmark and Greenland, a semi‑autonomous Danish territory.

EU leaders warned that tariff threats “undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral.” They pledged to remain united and coordinated, emphasizing their commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Jan 21, 2026 at 02:48 PM EST

Donald Trump Announces Greenland Deal With NATO: What to Know

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that his administration has established a “framework” for a potential deal involving Greenland and the broader Arctic region following what he described as a productive meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

In a social media post, Trump said the understanding prompted him to halt tariffs that were set to take effect Feb. 1, adding that further negotiations are underway and that senior administration officials will lead talks and report directly to him.

Jan 21, 2026 at 02:42 PM EST

Murkowski criticizes Trump’s Greenland push, welcomes No-force pledge

Sen. Lisa Murkowski said Wednesday that President Donald Trump’s demand for U.S. control of Greenland disregarded the island’s people, even as she praised him for ruling out military action.

“It’s unfortunate that it needed to be said,” the Alaska Republican told CNN at the World Economic Forum in Davos, noting her friendships with Greenlanders and lamenting Trump’s failure to acknowledge their existence.

Murkowski, a longtime opponent of acquiring Greenland, agreed the territory is strategically important but insisted its future must be decided by its citizens. She objected to Trump’s description of the island as a “piece of ice,” stressing it is home to native communities.

She added that European officials have pressed her for clarity on Trump’s intentions, especially after his tariff threats against allies. Murkowski said she had little guidance, recalling Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s response when asked about Trump’s speech: “He’s going to say what he’s going to say.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 02:35 PM EST

WATCH: Trump’s Davos speech explained: What to know

Jan 21, 2026 at 02:34 PM EST

Trump refuses to name his price for Greenland

President Donald Trump was asked what he thought was an acceptable price for the United States to buy Greenland, during his meeting with NATO chief Mark Rutte in Davos.

Trump declined to give an actual price, instead telling reporters, “There’s a bigger price, and that’s the price of safety and security and national security and international security having to do with many of your countries.

"That’s really the price. It’s a big price.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 02:30 PM EST

Trump says Danish foreign minister will have to reject negotiations ‘to my face’

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the Danish foreign minister would have to reject his big to take over Greenland to his face.

"I don't like getting it secondhand," Trump said. "If he wants to tell me, he'll tell me that to my face."

Trump then said he planned to discuss his big to acquire Greenland with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, rather than the Denmark leader, because he was "more important."

The president was asked if he was reassured by Rutte's comments that Europe would be there for the U.S. if it came under attack.

"Well, I hope that that's true," Trump replied. "I mean, he's, he's a good man. He's never lied to me before."

Jan 21, 2026 at 02:28 PM EST

EU suspends US trade deal amid Greenland threats

The European Parliament has halted work on a US‑EU trade agreement, citing what officials described as Washington’s “continued and escalating threats” over Greenland.

Bernd Lange, chair of Parliament’s international trade committee, said the U.S. was undermining stability by using tariffs as leverage while challenging the sovereignty of Denmark and Greenland. “There is no alternative but to suspend,” Lange told reporters after a meeting of parliamentary representatives.

Jan 21, 2026 at 02:20 PM EST

Newsom said he’s been denied access to USA House in Davos amid pressure from White House

California Governor Gavin Newsom said he has been denied access U.S. pavilion at Davos amid pressure from the Trump administration.

Newsom was set to speak at the House on Wednesday but the vocal Trump critic said he'd been blocked access to the official U.S. House, and instead offered an off-the-record VIP nightcap at 10 p.m.

"California was just denied at the USA House. Last we checked, California is part of USA," Newsom wrote on X.

Newsweek has reached out to the White House for comment.

Jan 21, 2026 at 02:13 PM EST

WATCH: Trump threatens Carney during Davos speech—’Should be grateful’

Jan 21, 2026 at 02:00 PM EST

Graham urges Europe to negotiate Greenland sale after Trump’s Davos push

Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham said Wednesday he will press European leaders to consider selling Greenland to the United States, arguing the territory is vital for national security.

Speaking after President Donald Trump’s address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Graham said Trump had convinced him that U.S. ownership of Greenland would allow the nation to “fortify it in a different way.” He stressed that Washington would not use military force to seize the island.

Graham, a close Trump ally, told reporters he was advising European officials to open negotiations “if you’ve got half a brain,” claiming the move would strengthen NATO. He acknowledged Finnish President Alexander Stubb expressed concern over Trump’s remarks but insisted Europe should confront the issue directly rather than expect him to temper Trump’s stance.

Jan 21, 2026 at 01:52 PM EST

WATCH: Trump threatens Canada’s Mark Carney during Davos speech

Jan 21, 2026 at 01:47 PM EST

German prosecutors arrest two over support for pro-Russian militias

German authorities said Wednesday they have detained a Russian citizen and a German national on suspicion of backing the foreign terrorist organizations known as the “People’s Republics of Donetsk and Luhansk.”

Prosecutors allege the pair helped organize deliveries of supplies, medical products and drones to pro‑Russian militia groups in eastern Ukraine dating back to 2016.

The arrests mark the latest effort by German investigators to clamp down on support networks tied to separatist forces involved in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Jan 21, 2026 at 01:46 PM EST

Trump: ‘Sometimes you need a dictator’

President Donald Trump spoke about the reaction to his Davos speech, saying he was surprised by the overall positive reaction to it.

"Usually they say, 'he's a horrible dictator,'" Trump said, referring to the typical reaction to his previous Greenland comments. "But sometimes you need a dictator," he added.

Reaction to Trump's announcement that he is not planning to take Greenland by military force has been widely welcomed, but his continued claims that the U.S. needs to acquire the island have shaken NATO allies.

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Jan 21, 2026 at 01:33 PM EST

European leaders debate Nato strength, self-defense at Davos

European leaders used the World Economic Forum in Davos to weigh the continent’s ability to defend itself. NATO Secretary‑General Mark Rutte emphasized the importance of the trans‑Atlantic alliance and praised U.S. President Donald Trump for pressing allies to boost defense spending.

Finnish President Alex Stubb struck a confident tone, insisting Europe could “unequivocally” withstand a Russian attack. He rejected suggestions the alliance was fractured, describing NATO as entering a “3.0” phase with expanded borders and new members such as Finland.

Stubb noted Russia’s economic stagnation, limited gains in Ukraine and shrinking influence as evidence of NATO’s growing strength. “Are we able to defend ourselves? My answer is: yes we are,” he said.

Jan 21, 2026 at 01:25 PM EST

NATO allies ‘breathing a sigh of relief’ after Trump’s Davos speech – but damage to transatlantic solidarity is done, says expert

NATO allies are "breathing a sigh of relief" after President Donald Trump backed away from his threats to take Greenland by military force, during his Davos speech, an expert told Newsweek on Wednesday.

Charles Kupchan, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, said that Trump's pledge not to use force "marks a notable retreat from his earlier insistence on taking over the island ‘the easy way or the hard way.’"

"NATO allies are breathing a sigh of relief. But enormous damage has been done to transatlantic solidarity," Kupchain warned.

"Trump is still demanding U.S. control over Greenland despite resolute opposition from Greenland, Denmark, and NATO allies. Trump is notoriously unpredictable; he might change his mind on using force if he does not get his way. And Trump’s continuing insults toward NATO allies, and sharp responses from those allies, are corroding the trust and solidarity that are the lifeblood of NATO.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 01:18 PM EST

Trump envoy heads to Moscow for talks on Ukraine land deals

U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff said he will travel to Russia with President Donald Trump’s son‑in‑law Jared Kushner on Thursday to discuss “land deals” related to Ukraine, according to comments made to CNBC.

The Kremlin confirmed through state news agency TASS that Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to meet with Witkoff during the visit.

Speaking earlier at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Trump said he believes both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Putin want to reach an agreement, adding they would be “stupid” if they failed to do so. Trump has also indicated he plans to meet Zelensky on the sidelines of the forum.

Jan 21, 2026 at 01:04 PM EST

Trump’s Davos speech represented a ‘de-escalation’ in rhetoric on Greenland, says expert

President Donald Trump rejected the use of military force to acquire Greenland during his speech at Davos on Wednesday, while continuing to press for full U.S. ownership of the Arctic island.

The president's comments stand in contrast with those made by several senior members of his administration, and even previous statements made by Trump himself.

“Trump’s renunciation of force on Greenland represented a de-escalation," Justin Logan, director of defense and foreign policy studies, at the Cato Institute - a Washington-based think tank - told Newsweek.

"So much of the panic about the issue stemmed from his advisers’ belligerent public threats. This took things down a notch."

Logan added that the de-escalation could give Europeans a chance to negotiate with the Trump administration to find a compromise.

"If the Europeans—including the Danes and Greenlanders—are smart, they will figure out some way to fit this into the real estate parlance Trump prefers. Perhaps a 99-year ground lease on part of the island, and a reiteration of the US ability to forward deploy military materiel under the 1951 treaty? There are many ways to continue the de-escalation and find a way out of this.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 12:49 PM EST

Trump closes Davos speech with Greenland demand, NATO doubts

President Donald Trump wrapped up more than an hour of remarks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where he reiterated his push to acquire Greenland and delivered his clearest statement yet, ruling out the use of military force to annex the Arctic island.

Trump’s address mixed praise with sharp criticism of European allies. He argued only the United States could secure Greenland, called Denmark “ungrateful” for refusing to cede the territory, and warned that parts of Europe were “not even recognizable” due to spending, migration, and imports.

The president doubled down on doubts about NATO’s reliability, brushed off Ukraine as outside U.S. concerns, and cautioned Canada to show more gratitude. He also touted the U.S. mission against former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, claimed his domestic agenda had produced an “economic miracle,” and promised prosecutions tied to the 2020 election.

Trump closed with a lengthy tirade against wind energy, blaming Europe’s reliance on windmills for economic decline.

Jan 21, 2026 at 12:35 PM EST

Gov. Newsom dismisses Trump’s Davos speech as ‘boring’ and ‘insignificant’

California Governor Gavin Newsom, a frequent critic and antagonist of Donald Trump, has dismissed the president's Davos discussing his wishes to acquire Greenland as "remarkably boring" and "insignificant."

"He was never going to be invade Greenland," Newsome told CNN when asked about Trump's comments. "It was never real. So that was always a fake. And so he says, well, we should negotiate. Well, everybody here has been willing to negotiate for a year. So it had fire and fury signifying absolutely nothing. Even by Trump standards."

"There was boorish parts of it, but those were, not even that consequential, including, name checking people he likes, people he didn't like," Newsome continued. "I was a little disappointed."

When asked what is reaction was to Trump's comments specifically attacking Newsom, the governor responded with a shrug, "Nothing."

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Jan 21, 2026 at 12:20 PM EST

EU lawmakers halt US trade deal over Trump’s Greenland threats

A key bloc in the European Parliament has blocked a vote to ratify the US‑EU trade deal after President Donald Trump threatened to annex Greenland and impose 10 percent tariffs on nations resisting his plan.

Bernd Lange, chair of Parliament’s trade committee, declared on X that the “EU‑US Deal [is] on ice indefinitely.”

It remains unclear whether the suspension applies to the entire agreement or only to provisions already in force. The EU and US reached a preliminary accord last July, with several elements implemented before formal ratification.

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Jan 21, 2026 at 12:06 PM EST

Wall Street rises after Trump’s Davos remarks

U.S. stocks climbed Wednesday morning as investors digested President Donald Trump’s speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The S&P 500 gained 74 points, or 1.1 percent, to 6,871.32 by 10:57 a.m. EST.

The Nasdaq Composite rose 1.27 percent to 23,246.71, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 0.98 percent to 48,963.82. Broader benchmarks also posted gains: the S&P MidCap 400 jumped 1.6 percent and the NYSE American Composite surged 1.87 percent.

Overseas, Japan’s Nikkei 225 slipped 0.41 percent. U.S. equities, however, remain on a strong trajectory, with the S&P 500 up more than 13 percent over the past year.

Jan 21, 2026 at 11:53 AM EST

Trump meets Swiss president, praises watches and ambassador

President Donald Trump met with Swiss Federation President Guy Parmelin in Davos, offering warm words for Switzerland and U.S. Ambassador Callista Gingrich. “You do have a great ambassador,” Trump said, joking that she “keeps her husband in line,” in reference to former House Speaker Newt Gingrich.

Trump also praised Switzerland as a “beautiful country” known for its watchmaking. Parmelin, however, pushed back on Trump’s earlier criticism of trade imbalances, noting that Switzerland runs a surplus, not a deficit, in its dealings with the United States.

Earlier in the day, Trump had told the World Economic Forum audience that Swiss watchmakers and other exporters were paying “nothing” to the U.S., citing a $41 billion deficit.

Jan 21, 2026 at 11:38 AM EST

Danish defense chair downplays Trump’s Greenland remarks

Rasmus Jarlov, chairman of Denmark’s parliamentary defense committee, said he was “wasn’t too upset” by President Donald Trump’s latest comments on Greenland at Davos.

In an interview, Jarlov noted that Trump’s insistence on acquiring the Arctic territory was not new and welcomed the president’s pledge to rule out the use of military force. “I’m glad he’s ruling out military force. I didn’t see in his remarks today an escalation,” he said.

Jan 21, 2026 at 11:23 AM EST

Wasserman Schultz criticizes Trump’s Greenland spending push

Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz blasted President Donald Trump’s ambitions for Greenland, accusing him of misplaced priorities. In a post on X, she said Trump “spent his entire first year cutting vital services for hardworking Americans because ‘we couldn’t afford it.’”

She contrasted those cuts with Trump’s claim the U.S. could spend $700 billion to acquire Greenland, arguing that resources should instead go toward making healthcare and food affordable.

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Jan 21, 2026 at 11:08 AM EST

Axelrod slams Trump’s Davos speech despite Greenland pledge

Former Obama adviser David Axelrod praised U.S. President Donald Trump for ruling out military force to annex Greenland, but sharply criticized the rest of his address at Davos.

In a post on X, Axelrod wrote it was “good” that Trump took an invasion of Greenland off the table, but described the remainder of the speech as “an embarrassing dumpster fire, with ominous portents for America and the world.”

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Jan 21, 2026 at 10:54 AM EST

Trump plans Davos meeting with Zelensky as envoys head to Moscow

President Donald Trump is expected to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Davos on Thursday, according to two people familiar with the matter. Zelensky remained in Kyiv on Wednesday while Trump delivered his World Economic Forum speech, during which he said he intended to meet with the Ukrainian leader later that day.

“I’m dealing with President Zelensky, and I think he wants to make a deal,” Trump said, noting the talks would continue efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

The meeting coincides with Trump’s foreign envoy Steve Witkoff and son‑in‑law Jared Kushner traveling to Moscow for discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump added that Zelensky and Putin are “at a point now where they can come together and get a deal done, and if they don’t, they’re stupid.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 10:39 AM EST

EU puts Turnberry trade legislation on hold amid Greenland threats

The European Parliament has suspended work on two legislative proposals tied to the EU‑US Turnberry trade deal, citing President Donald Trump’s escalating tariff threats linked to Greenland.

Bernd Lange, chair of Parliament’s International Trade Committee, said the U.S. is undermining “the stability and predictability of EU‑US trade relations” by using tariffs as a coercive tool while challenging the sovereignty of Denmark and Greenland.

The Turnberry Deal, reached in 2025, would have lifted tariffs on U.S. industrial goods and created quota systems for American agri‑food exports. But Lange said negotiations cannot proceed until Washington “re‑engages on a path of cooperation rather than confrontation.”

A press conference on the suspension is scheduled for Wednesday afternoon in Strasbourg.

Jan 21, 2026 at 10:25 AM EST

Trump wraps Davos Q&A after Greenland push, NATO threats

President Donald Trump concluded his onstage question‑and‑answer session at the World Economic Forum in Davos, capping an extraordinary appearance marked by sharp contrasts.

Over the course of his remarks, Trump alternately praised and threatened European allies, pressed for U.S. ownership of Greenland, and delivered his clearest statement yet, ruling out the use of military force to seize the Arctic territory.

Jan 21, 2026 at 10:22 AM EST

Lawmakers, Newsom office mock Trump’s Greenland push

President Donald Trump’s Davos speech drew sharp rebukes from U.S. officials and political leaders.

Rep. Nellie Pou wrote on X that “Greenlanders decide Greenland’s future. Not Donald Trump,” underscoring opposition to his annexation push. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries added that Trump was “overseas embarrassing America on the world stage. Again.”

Meanwhile, California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s press office posted a photo mocking Trump with a “senility prize,” amplifying criticism of the president’s rhetoric abroad.

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Jan 21, 2026 at 10:17 AM EST

Trump calls Zelensky, Putin ‘stupid’ if peace deal fails

U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking in Davos during a Q&A with World Economic Forum President Borge Brende, bluntly said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin would be “stupid” if they failed to reach a peace agreement.

Trump quickly added, “I don’t want to insult anyone,” a caveat that drew laughter from at least one person in the audience.

Jan 21, 2026 at 10:11 AM EST

Audience grew restless as Trump wrapped Davos speech

After more than an hour on stage in Davos, U.S. President Donald Trump began losing the audience's attention. As he digressed into comments about groundskeeping in Washington, D.C., attendees checked their phones, stifled yawns and, in some cases, headed for the exits.

Sensing the shift, Trump pivoted from a familiar attack on Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar to closing remarks. “She comes from a country that’s not a country, and she’s telling us how to run America,” he said, before concluding that Western prosperity stemmed not from tax cuts but from “our very special culture.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 10:09 AM EST

Trump begins Q&A with World Economic Forum president

U.S. President Donald Trump shifted from his prepared remarks in Davos to a question‑and‑answer session with World Economic Forum President Borge Brende.

Brende opened the exchange by thanking Trump for his speech before moving into follow‑up questions on the president’s economic and geopolitical agenda. The session offered the audience a chance to press Trump on his sweeping claims about trade, alliances and Greenland.

Jan 21, 2026 at 09:44 AM EST

Trump brings up Macron’s glasses — but there was a reason the French president wore them

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U.S. President Donald Trump briefly turned his Davos speech toward French President Emmanuel Macron’s appearance, referencing the “beautiful sunglasses” Macron wore on stage Tuesday. “What the hell happened?” Trump quipped, drawing attention to the French leader’s blue mirrored aviators.

Macron wore them in Paris and during his address at the World Economic Forum. The sunglasses followed his January 15 New Year’s speech to the French military, where he acknowledged a visibly irritated eye. “It’s something completely harmless,” Macron said at the time, joking that it was an “eye of the tiger” symbol of determination.

Jan 21, 2026 at 09:39 AM EST

Study finds Americans shoulder tariff burden as Trump links levies to Greenland

A new analysis from the Kiel Institute for the World Economy concluded that U.S. consumers bore 96 percent of the costs from President Donald Trump’s tariffs last year, with importers absorbing only 4 percent.

The study, based on more than 25 million shipment records, found that firms passed costs to buyers due to alternative markets abroad and limited supplier options.

Customs revenue surged by roughly $200 billion, but the levies also fueled inflation, which the Federal Reserve has said is overshooting its target largely because of Trump’s trade policies.

The findings come as Trump escalates his use of tariffs as leverage in his push to acquire Greenland. On Saturday, he threatened 10 percent duties on imports from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, Finland, the U.K., and the Netherlands beginning February 1, rising to 25 percent in June unless Denmark and Greenland agree to U.S. control of the island.

Trump has defended his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, though the Supreme Court has expressed skepticism.

Jan 21, 2026 at 09:32 AM EST

Trump signs housing order, urges 10% cap on credit card rates

U.S. President Donald Trump used his Davos speech to announce new housing and financial measures, saying America “will not become a nation of renters.” He said he has signed an executive order banning large institutional investors from buying single‑family homes, calling it unfair to ordinary buyers.

Trump then turned to credit card debt, describing it as a major barrier to homeownership. “I’m asking Congress to cap credit card interest rates at 10% for one year, and this will help millions of Americans save for a home,” he said.

He criticized lenders for charging rates as high as 32% and argued that excessive debt is preventing families from building savings. Trump also touted his administration’s efforts to keep the U.S. “the crypto capital of the world,” citing last year’s Genius Act and pending legislation on Bitcoin and other digital assets.

Jan 21, 2026 at 09:29 AM EST

Trump again blames Biden for inflation, claims grocery prices down

Pivoting back to domestic issues in his Davos speech, U.S. President Donald Trump accused former President Joseph R. Biden of fueling inflation and insisted that grocery costs have fallen under his leadership.

Trump’s assertion contrasts with government data, which shows that while the pace of price increases has slowed, overall grocery prices have not declined during his tenure.

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Jan 21, 2026 at 09:27 AM EST

Trump confuses Iceland with Greenland in stock market comment

U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking in Davos, appeared to conflate Iceland with Greenland while discussing recent declines in the U.S. stock market.

“Our stock market took the first dip yesterday because of Iceland,” Trump said. “So Iceland’s already cost us a lot of money.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 09:26 AM EST

Trump to Europe on Greenland: ‘Say no and we will remember’

U.S. President Donald Trump sharpened his message to European leaders in Davos, tying America’s goodwill to their stance on Greenland.

“They have a choice: You can say yes, and we will be very appreciative, or you can say no, and we will remember,” Trump told the audience.

Jan 21, 2026 at 09:24 AM EST

Trump equates Greenland to ‘piece of ice,’ calls it a small ask

U.S. President Donald Trump closed his Davos remarks by describing Greenland as “cold and poorly located” but vital to “world peace and world protection.” He added, “It’s a very small ask.”

Earlier, Trump said he planned to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, joking, “He might be in the audience right now.” Zelensky canceled his trip to Davos to address damage to Ukraine’s power and heating systems from recent Russian strikes.

Trump also revisited World War II history, claiming the United States “gave back” Greenland after sending troops there. In reality, Denmark signed a 1941 agreement with the U.S. for U.S. forces to defend the territory, but never ceded sovereignty.

Jan 21, 2026 at 09:15 AM EST

Trump rejects use of force, says U.S. only seeks Greenland

Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed speculation that he might use military power to achieve his goals, insisting his administration is focused solely on Greenland.

“We probably won’t get anything unless I decide to use excessive strength and force where we would be, frankly, unstoppable. But I won’t do that,” Trump said.

He added: “That’s probably the biggest statement I made because people thought I would use force. I don’t have to use force. I don’t want to use force. I won’t use force. All the United States is asking for is a place called Greenland.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 09:14 AM EST

Trump: ‘We give so much and we get so little in return’

Trump sharpened his criticism of NATO while insisting he has done more to sustain the alliance than any leader before him.

“Nobody can dispute it. We give so much and we get so little in return,” Trump said. “I’ve been a critic of NATO for many years, and yet I’ve done more to help NATO than any other president before, than any other person. You wouldn’t have NATO if I didn’t get involved in my first term.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 09:10 AM EST

Trump presses for immediate talks to acquire Greenland

U.S. President Donald Trump capped his Davos remarks by saying he is seeking “immediate negotiations” for the United States to acquire Greenland, framing the territory as a “core national security interest” rather than a resource grab for rare‑earth minerals.

"I'm seeking immediate negotiations to once again to discuss the acquisition of Greenland by the United States," he said.

Earlier in his speech, Trump drew groans from the audience with a quip that without U.S. intervention in World War II, “you’d all be speaking German and little Japanese.”

He also revisited history, arguing that America was “stupid” to return Greenland after defending it during Germany’s invasion of Denmark, and accused Denmark of being “ungrateful.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 09:07 AM EST

Trump says Greenland is ‘our territory’

Trump used his address at the World Economic Forum in Davos to elevate Greenland as a central national security concern, arguing that only the United States can defend the Arctic territory. His remarks came amid ongoing tensions with Denmark and NATO allies over his annexation ambitions.

"We need it for strategic national security and international security," he said. "This enormous unsecured island is actually part of North America. That's our territory."

He added, "I have tremendous respect for both the people of Greenland and the people of Denmark. Tremendous respect. But every NATO ally has an obligation to be able to defend their own territory. And the fact is, no nation or group of nations is in any position to be able to secure Greenland other than the United States. We're a great power, much greater than people even understand. I think they found that out two weeks ago in Venezuela."

Jan 21, 2026 at 09:04 AM EST

Trump: Venezuela ‘is going to do fantastically well’

Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, U.S. President Donald Trump struck an upbeat tone on Venezuela, declaring the country “is going to do fantastically well” and commending cooperation from its government in recent weeks following the capture of Nicolás Maduro.

Trump said every major oil company is backing his administration’s plan to revive Venezuela’s oil industry. Yet at a recent White House meeting, some executives expressed concern about entering the market amid lingering political uncertainty.

Jan 21, 2026 at 08:56 AM EST

Trump says U.S. oil output rising, highlights Venezuela deal

U.S. President Donald Trump told the World Economic Forum in Davos that American oil production has surged by 730,000 barrels a day, while pointing to new cooperation with Venezuela.

Trump said the U.S. had “picked up 50 million barrels from Venezuela alone” last week, describing the deal as mutually beneficial. “We’re going to be splitting up with them, and they’ll be making more money than they’ve made in a long time. Venezuela is going to do fantastically well,” he said.

The president contrasted Venezuela’s current struggles with its past prosperity, blaming poor policies over the last two decades. He framed the new arrangement as part of his administration’s broader energy success.

Jan 21, 2026 at 08:54 AM EST

Trump blasts Europe’s policies, calls parts ‘unrecognizable’ in Davos speech

U.S. President Donald Trump opened his address at the World Economic Forum in Davos with sharp criticism of Europe, telling a packed hall of officials that parts of the continent were “not even recognizable” in a negative way.

The remarks came as transatlantic ties remain strained over Trump’s push to annex Greenland. He argued that Europe’s immigration and economic policies had produced “catastrophic consequences,” contrasting them with what he described as an American “economic miracle.”

“I love Europe, and I want to see Europe go good, but it’s not heading in the right direction,” Trump said, pointing to rising government spending, mass migration and reliance on foreign imports.

Jan 21, 2026 at 08:48 AM EST

Trump declares U.S. ‘economic engine of the planet’ in Davos speech

U.S. President Donald Trump told the World Economic Forum in Davos that America has transformed from “a dead country” under Democrats to “the hottest country anywhere in the world” after one year of his policies.

Trump said the U.S. economy is on pace to grow at double the rate projected by the International Monetary Fund last spring, crediting his growth and tariff agenda. He argued that expansion could climb even higher, calling the turnaround “great news” not only for the United States but for global markets.

“The USA is the economic engine on the planet,” Trump said, adding that when America prospers, “the entire world booms.”

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Jan 21, 2026 at 08:44 AM EST

Trump touts ‘record’ growth, claims low inflation in Davos speech

Trump used the start of his address to contrast his first year in office with what he called the “nightmare of stagflation” under the Biden administration. Trump said that America is now experiencing “virtually no inflation and extraordinarily high economic growth,” citing core inflation at 1.6 percent over the past three months and a projected 5.4 percent expansion in the fourth quarter.

He highlighted a string of economic milestones, including 52 stock market records in one year, adding $9 trillion in value to retirement accounts and savings. Trump also said more than 1.2 million people have been lifted off food stamps since his inauguration and pointed to investment commitments totaling up to $20 trillion, which he described as unprecedented globally.

Framing the turnaround as historic, Trump told attendees that the United States had gone from being “a dead country” under Democrats to “the hottest country anywhere in the world.”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, core inflation in November and December stood at 2.6% year‑over‑year, not 1.6%. Prices rose 2.7% compared with the same period last year, showing inflation remains present, though lower than the peaks seen earlier in the decade.

Jan 21, 2026 at 08:41 AM EST

Trump hails ‘dramatic economic turnaround’ in Davos speech

Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, U.S. President Donald Trump marked the one‑year anniversary of his inauguration by declaring the United States is experiencing “the fastest and most dramatic economic turnaround in our country’s history.”

Trump told attendees that after 12 months back in the White House, the economy is “booming,” with growth, productivity, investment, and incomes all rising. He said that inflation had been "defeated" and described the U.S. border as “virtually impenetrable” following new enforcement measures.

Jan 21, 2026 at 08:39 AM EST

Trump takes Davos stage amid Greenland tariff tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump has begun his address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, seizing the spotlight for what is expected to be a wide‑ranging speech.

His appearance comes just days after escalating threats of tariffs against eight European nations over their opposition to Washington’s bid to acquire Greenland, setting the tone for a high‑stakes hour before global leaders and executives.

Jan 21, 2026 at 08:38 AM EST

Crowd gathers in Davos as Trump speech nears

Hundreds of government officials, business leaders, and former policymakers packed into Zone C of Congress Hall at the World Economic Forum on Wednesday, awaiting President Donald Trump’s address. A tense mood settled over the room, with some attendees speculating whether the president might be booed if he raised his controversial Greenland proposal. Others worried his delayed arrival could push back the schedule.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick was spotted greeting attendees at the front of the room, while Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang made his way through the crowd.

Moments later, a forum staff member announced that Trump’s speech would begin shortly, signaling the president’s imminent arrival.

Jan 21, 2026 at 08:33 AM EST

IN PICTURES: Trump arrives in Davos for World Economic Forum

U.S. President Donald Trump touched down in Davos on Wednesday, stepping off Marine One at the Swiss mountain town’s landing zone before heading to the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting.

The high‑profile gathering, which runs January 19–23, brings together global leaders, executives, and policymakers to debate economic and geopolitical challenges.

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Jan 21, 2026 at 08:30 AM EST

Trump moments away from Davos address

President Donald Trump is expected to speak shortly at the World Economic Forum.

His remarks are scheduled for 2:30 p.m. local time (8:30 a.m. ET), with global leaders and business executives gathered to hear him outline his latest views on trade and foreign policy.

Jan 21, 2026 at 08:29 AM EST

Starmer vows Britain ‘will not yield’ on Greenland, defends Chagos deal

Labour leader Keir Starmer used Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday to reaffirm Britain’s stance against U.S. pressure over Greenland, declaring: “I will not yield. Britain will not yield on our principles and values about the future of Greenland under threats of tariffs.”

Starmer condemned President Donald Trump’s tariff threats as “completely wrong” and said Denmark’s prime minister will travel to London tomorrow for bilateral talks. His remarks underscore the U.K.’s alignment with European allies resisting Washington’s push to acquire the Arctic territory.

The comments also followed criticism from U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who accused Britain of “letting us down” by agreeing to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Starmer defended the move as consistent with Britain’s values, contrasting it with Trump’s demands for Greenland.

Jan 21, 2026 at 08:24 AM EST

U.S. governors blast Trump’s Greenland push at Davos panel

A bipartisan group of U.S. governors sharply criticized President Donald Trump’s bid to acquire Greenland during a CNN‑hosted panel at the World Economic Forum in Davos, calling the proposal “dumb as hell” and “a little weird.”

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear warned the plan had turned America from “leader of the free world to the bully on the playground,” adding that Trump’s Greenland push was “so damaging, so concerning – and this is not who we are.”

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, a Republican, acknowledged Trump’s pressure on Europe to bolster defense spending but dismissed the Greenland idea as unnecessary. “We can already put military bases on Greenland,” he said.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer cautioned that the fallout from the proposal could take years to repair, undermining U.S. competitiveness and trust among allies. Speaking later to CNN, she summed up her reaction bluntly: “What the hell?”

Jan 21, 2026 at 08:09 AM EST

Global markets rattle as Trump’s tariff threats trigger U.S. asset sell-off

A sharp sell‑off in U.S. assets rippled across global markets on Wednesday after President Donald Trump threatened sweeping tariffs on European allies over his push to acquire Greenland.

Asian stocks led the decline, with Taiwan’s Taiex dropping more than 1.5 percent and Japan’s Topix down 1 percent. European trading was mixed, with small losses in France and Germany while U.K. shares held flat. U.S. futures pointed to a modest rebound.

The dollar weakened against the yen but gained on the euro. Gold surged past $4,800 an ounce to a new record, with analysts predicting the metal could breach $5,000 this year amid persistent geopolitical uncertainty.

Tuesday’s remarks from Trump sparked the first “triple sell‑off” in months, with equities, the dollar, and Treasuries all sliding. Yields on 10‑year U.S. bonds climbed as prices fell, underlining investor unease. Japanese government bonds also came under pressure after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called a snap election and pledged costly tax cuts, fueling concerns about fiscal discipline.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the Japanese bond turmoil had spilled into Treasuries, adding to volatility. Analysts warned that markets may be losing patience with Trump’s tariff brinkmanship. “Capital flight from the U.S. market is clear,” said Takahide Kiuchi of Nomura Research Institute, urging Washington to reconsider its trade stance.

Jan 21, 2026 at 07:55 AM EST

Treasury chief Bessent dismisses Denmark’s U.S. bond exit as ‘irrelevant’

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent brushed off concerns about European investors pulling back from American debt, telling reporters at the World Economic Forum in Davos that Denmark’s role is “irrelevant.”

“Denmark’s investment in U.S. Treasury bonds like Denmark itself is irrelevant,” Bessent said when asked about institutional investors exiting the market. He noted that Danish pension fund AkademikerPension’s decision to sell its $100 million in Treasuries was insignificant compared to the $30.8 trillion market. “They’ve been selling treasuries, they have for years. I’m not concerned at all,” he added.

Denmark holds just under $10 billion in U.S. bonds, while the European Union collectively owns about $8 trillion, making it the largest foreign financer of American debt.

Jan 21, 2026 at 07:40 AM EST

NATO chief Rutte: Alliance cannot exist without U.S.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, NATO Secretary‑General Mark Rutte dismissed the idea of the alliance functioning without American leadership. “No,” he said when asked if NATO could exist without the United States, calling the country “by far the most powerful nation on earth” and its president “the leader of the free world.”

Rutte emphasized that the U.S. role is indispensable to NATO’s identity and strength, noting that the alliance cannot be envisioned without Washington at its core. He also praised President Donald Trump for pressing member states to increase defense spending, a stance Rutte has frequently highlighted as strengthening NATO’s collective security.

Jan 21, 2026 at 07:27 AM EST

Zelensky withholds Davos visit amid $800B Ukraine plan stalemate

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is holding off on attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, saying he will remain in Kyiv unless a sweeping $800 billion “Prosperity Plan” is finalized between the U.S., Europe and Ukraine. The initiative, intended to fund post‑war reconstruction, has stalled amid transatlantic tensions over President Donald Trump’s demands for Greenland.

Zelensky underscored the urgency of immediate aid after Russian airstrikes left more than 1 million residents of Kyiv without electricity. “Air defense missiles are needed daily. Weapons are needed daily. Equipment for recovery and reserves is needed daily,” he said in his nightly address, warning against “empty politics or talks with no results.”

The Ukrainian leader added that he could travel to Switzerland at short notice if agreements were reached, but staying away would avoid a clash over Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace,” which could include Russia and Belarus. “Russia is about a body of war,” Zelensky told reporters Tuesday, dismissing the idea of joining such a forum.

Even if Western leaders reach consensus on post‑war guarantees, Zelensky noted, any framework would still require Russian acceptance before taking effect.

Jan 21, 2026 at 07:13 AM EST

Trump’s Davos arrival tests Europe’s patience over Greenland dispute

When U.S. President Donald Trump lands in Davos on Wednesday, he will face a wary reception from European leaders after two weeks of transatlantic turmoil sparked by his push to seize Greenland.

Many of Europe’s top figures are absent from the World Economic Forum this year, leaving a smaller group of interlocutors who have historically sought to temper Trump’s rhetoric, even as they oppose his Greenland ambitions. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who has taken a more conciliatory approach than French President Emmanuel Macron, is among those present. Finnish President Alexander Stubb, joined by his Norwegian counterpart, has already messaged Trump to register opposition to new tariff threats against their countries.

NATO Secretary‑General Mark Rutte, known for his efforts to flatter Trump in past encounters, is also in Davos. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, whose ideological leanings align more closely with Trump, is reportedly scheduled to meet him despite her official agenda placing her in Rome.

Jan 21, 2026 at 07:00 AM EST

US Commerce Secretary downplays fears over Trump’s Greenland push

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has said "they'll work it out" in referring to the tensions over President Donald Trump's wish to acquire Greenland.

In an interview with Fox Business Lutnick appeared to play down concerns over Trump’s push to own Greenland which he said "matters to us for national security.”

“My guess is they’ll work it out," Lutnick said, .adding that Trump "wants them at the table. He wants them serious.” Lutnick’s remarks follow his op-ed the Financial Times op-ed published Wednesday which said that the U.S. was not going to Davos "to uphold the status quo" and that "we’re going to confront it head-on.”

Jan 21, 2026 at 06:53 AM EST

Trump arrives in Switzerland

Donald Trump has landed in Switzerland ahead of his address to the world's political and economic elite in Davos after his journey had been disrupted by technical problems on Air Force One

Air Force One touched down at Zurich airport just before 1 p.m. local time in an arrival which was nearly two hours late.

Air Force One made a U-turn over the Atlantic due to a “minor” electrical issue and returned to Joint Base Andrews before heading off again for Switzerland.

The world's media was awaiting Trump to emerge from the aircraft and first on his agenda will be a reception with business leaders, before he makes a speech to the World Economic Forum in Davos later.

Trump’s late arrival has had an impact on his schedule, with a planned bilateral meeting today with German chancellor Friedrich Merz cancelled due to the US delegation’s late arrival, a German source told Reuters.

Jan 21, 2026 at 06:11 AM EST

“Time of flattery has ended” ex-NATO chief on Trump

Former NATO secretary-general Anders Fogh Rasmussen has told the BBC that the time for flattering President Donald Trump was over and there should be a concerted response by Europe to Trump's "outrageous" comments about acquiring Greenland.

He said that it "would be the end of NATO" if Trump took over Greenland by force as it would amount an attack by one NATO member on another member of the collective defense group. This should focus European countries on their own ability to defend the continent.

"The time of flattery has ended, we can now expect a more firm and more united European response to the outrageous statements by President Trump. What we need now is a more constructive discussion on how we can accommodate the concerns of the American president."

Rasmussen's comments suggest that while he opposes Trump's push to acquire Greenland, he was open to dialogue that could see some sort of compromise.

He said that Trump has helped unite Europe with his rhetoric but the split across the alliance would only serve the interests of Vladimir Putin and other authoritarian leaders.

Jan 21, 2026 at 05:53 AM EST

Greenland issue must not distract from Ukraine war: NATO chief

More from the question and answer session in which NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, also urged European leaders not to allow the crisis over Greenland to distract from the war started by Russia in Ukraine.

Rutte said that he believed the issue over Greenland could be resolved and that the focus on Ukraine should be the number one priority for European and U.S. security.

At the same discussion, Finland's president Alexander Stubb said that he was more worried about Russia's unwillingness to end the war. “This war has been an utter strategic failure of President Putin," Stubb said, "he increased the size of NATO, he made Ukraine European, he increased the defense budgets of European states.

Jan 21, 2026 at 05:37 AM EST

NATO chief says alliance needs U.S. and Trump

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has said that "nobody wants" the alliance without the U.S. which is "by far the most powerful nation on earth."

During a discussion on Wednesday in Davos, Rutte was asked if he ever envisioned a time when NATO would not be the cornerstone of European defense, as the alliance faces the crisis of President Donald Trump reiterating his call to acquire Greenland, a territory of founding member Denmark, for American security reasons.

Rutte replied that 75 percent of NATO's GDP came from outside the European Union and that the U.S. which has the world's largest defense budget, was an integral part of the alliance.

"The president of the United States is the leader of the free world and you cannot envision NATO without the leader of the free world being an integral part of the organization and nobody wants it not on the U.S. side, not on the European side," Rutte said during the Q and A.

Rutte said that he was convinced the U.S. would respond if NATO's Article 5 collective defense clause was triggered, "I have no doubt the U.S. would come to the rescue, we will come to the rescue to the U.S .and we need each other for our collective protection."

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