US Won't Use Force To Take Greenland, Says Donald Trump in Davos

While addressing the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos on Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump spoke amid brewing tensions between the United States and European nations.

His speech came amid criticism from European allies over his adamant stance on capturing Greenland and his threats to impose new tariffs.

In response, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that Europe is prepared to strike back if needed.

The United States President Donald Trump is also expected to lead a session on the ‘Board of Peace’ at the summit.

This newly-initiated body focuses on monitoring efforts to  stop the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Highlights Of Donald Trump’s Speech on Greenland

While speaking at the WEF (World Economic Forum), Trump remained committed to his goal of acquiring Greenland with a clear title and ownership. However, he has denied using military power for this.

Emphasizing Greenland's strategic relevance, he said that the world’s largest island is nestled between the United States, China, and Russia.

Trump finds the acquisition of Greenland important for securing both US and global security.

He refutes the claims of centralisation of US interest in Greenland’s rich minerals.

Indicating World War II, Trump held Denmark incompetent in defending itself and Greenland after Germany occupied it.

He also used the word ‘ungrateful’ to describe Denmark and even called Greenland a piece of ice in a poor location.

Trump also added that the United States, which has been supportive of Denmark for decades, is demanding very little in return.

According to him, the U.S acquisition of Greenland will not cause any harm to NATO.

Moreover, it will only bolster the alliance’s security. He also accused NATO of unfair treatment of the United States.

Trump also criticised Europe, saying it is not going in the right direction and that some parts of the continent are ‘unfamiliar’.

But despite it, he loves Europe and wishes to see it succeed.

World Economic Forum: What It Means and Who's Participating

Based in Geneva, Switzerland, the World Economic Forum (WEF) is a global organisation.

​It brings together political leaders, experts, and business executives to discuss crucial global issues, including international cooperation, economic inequality, technology, and climate change.

​Davos, a small Swiss mountain town, which is the venue of the current summit, has been hosting such events since 1971.

​According to event organisers, the summit is attended by 400 senior political leaders. Among these are 60 heads of state and government.

​Apart from 850 top business leaders from global firms, they will also attend the summit. On Wednesday, Trump accompanied senior US officials.

​These included special envoy Steve Witkoff, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

​The other main attendees are Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, French President Emmanuel Macron, China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi.

Among the other participants of the event are 11 central bank governors, 55 economy and finance ministers, 34 trade and industry ministers, and 33 foreign ministers.

Trump and European Leaders Spar Over Greenland

Before coming to Davos, Donald Trump made fun of European leaders at a time when Greenland became a serious debate.

At the summit, European leaders stood up against the U.S President and responded to his ‘America First’ policy.

French President Emmanuel Macron stated that it's high time Europe stood up to the ‘bullies’. While the European Union pledged a robust and united response.

Trump contends that Greenland’s mineral wealth and strategic location are essential to the United States and NATO's security, as they help defend against Russia and China.

According to Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, Trump’s adamant behavior poses a collateral risk for US-EU relations. It will spark a ‘downward spiral’.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carnery even received a standing ovation for his stance on reducing Canada’s dependence on the US, despite Trump’s suggestion that it become the 51st US state.

Bottom Line

Trump’s Davos statement and his adamant decision to acquire Greenland pose a major global threat. Because of this, European leaders have been forced to unite and stand against his bullying. Let’s see how things take a turn ahead.