Trump Advocates for Greenland Acquisition and Criticizes European Policies in Davos Address
In a sweeping address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, US President Donald Trump called for negotiations on the acquisition of Greenland while explicitly ruling out the use of force. Speaking on the first anniversary of his inauguration, Trump linked US economic strength, energy policy, and security guarantees to what he described as America’s renewed global leadership.
Economic and Energy Criticisms
Trump asserted that the United States is undergoing the "fastest economic turnaround in its history," citing strong growth, low inflation, and record stock market gains. He told business and political leaders, "When America booms, the entire world booms. The United States is now the hottest country in the world."
He sharply criticized European climate and energy policies, branding them the "Green New Scam" and blaming them for economic decline. Trump argued that Europe has replaced affordable energy with wind power that "destroys your land," adding, "You’re supposed to make money with energy, not lose it." He pointed to falling electricity production in Germany and restrictions on drilling in the North Sea as evidence of policy failure.
Greenland as a National Security Interest
Turning to Greenland, Trump described the vast Arctic territory as a "core national security interest" for the United States. He argued that only Washington could properly defend it, stating, "Every NATO ally has to defend its territory, but only the United States can secure Greenland." Trump noted that the US protected the island during World War II and later returned it to Denmark, calling that decision "a mistake."
He expressed tremendous respect for the people of Greenland and Denmark and emphasized that he is seeking negotiations for Greenland’s acquisition by the United States. However, he stressed that he would not use military force, saying, "This would not be a threat to NATO. It would greatly enhance the security of the entire alliance."
NATO and Foreign Policy Remarks
Trump repeated complaints that NATO had treated the United States "very unfairly," while claiming he has done more than any previous president to strengthen the alliance by pushing members to increase defense spending. He also highlighted a major military buildup, including new aircraft, missile defense systems, and what he described as a "golden dome" to protect the US and its allies.
On foreign policy, Trump mentioned meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy later that day in an effort to end what he called a "bloodbath" in Ukraine, claiming 30,000 soldiers were dying each month. He said he had settled eight other conflicts in his first year back in office and argued that US military power is central to global stability.
Closing Remarks on Global Leadership
Trump closed his address by portraying the United States as "back bigger, stronger and better than ever before." He urged allies to follow Washington’s economic and energy model while warning that American strength would determine the trajectory of the global economy.
