At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Western US allies publicly resist President Donald Trump's policies for the first time. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warns against the annexation of Greenland and calls for an independent Europe. Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney urges medium-sized countries to form an alliance against major powers.
The World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos marks a turning point in responses to US President Donald Trump's second term. After a year of tariffs on products like canned beer, upholstered furniture, and cars, insults on Truth Social, and threats of military actions in Canada and Greenland, allies are determined to proceed without the US.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen accused Trump of breaking his word in trade talks on the forum's first day and called for a "new, independent Europe." French President Emmanuel Macron criticized US "bullying" and demanded a "trade bazooka" against Trump's plans. Denmark responded to the Greenland threats by requesting a permanent NATO presence and issuing a firm statement to Trump.
The opening star was Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney. In a speech, he spoke of a "break" in the world order and urged medium-sized countries to unite: "Medium powers must act together, because if you're not at the table, you're on the menu." His words received standing ovations and signal pragmatic realism amid weakened UN and NATO.
Trump is set to arrive in Davos on Wednesday, where a counterstrike against further tariffs is being prepared. The events highlight pressure on the US and the need for global action without American leadership.