Davos, Switzerland — During the annual World Economic Forum gathering, U.S. President Donald Trump made an impression on the international audience with his candid remarks, delivered via video link. His address and the subsequent Q&A session were key moments of the event, coinciding with his recent return to the White House, which influenced various sessions throughout the day, including a discussion on tariffs and a passionate speech from Javier Milei, the bold president of Argentina.
Trump, a familiar figure at Davos, having attended during his previous term, participated in discussions among CEOs, visionary entrepreneurs, political leaders, and scholars in the Swiss alpine town. His recent executive decisions, made after assuming office for a second term, fueled discussions in the corridors of the Davos Congress Center. These actions included the decision to exit the Paris climate agreements, renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, and halting the admission of refugees into the country.
While speaking to the attendees, Trump emphasized that his administration was committed to more U.S. oil drilling and a preference for what he termed “good clean coal” compared to the policies of his predecessor, Joe Biden. “The United States possesses the largest reserves of oil and gas globally, and we intend to utilize them,” Trump stated. His comments on coal resonated with Arunabha Ghosh, CEO of the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) in India, who highlighted the importance of focusing on energy security and renewable energy sources, which are often more cost-effective than coal.
Trump also issued a warning to European leaders, reiterating that NATO allies should not assume they would be exempt from potential U.S. tariffs. He remarked on his affection for Europe, but criticized the complex processes and perceived unfair tax treatment that the U.S. receives.
Concerns regarding Trump’s proposed tariffs were voiced by two prominent global economic figures, who cautioned that such measures could lead to damaging trade disputes. World Trade Organization Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala recalled the lessons from the 1930s Great Depression, where the use of tariffs worsened the global economy. If Trump’s talk of tariffs serves as a bargaining tactic, she suggested that patience is necessary. Meanwhile, European Union Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis acknowledged the strategic partnership between the EU and the U.S., affirming a desire for cooperative engagement moving forward.
In another discussion, Argentina’s Milei fiercely criticized “wokeism,” framing it as part of a global struggle between libertarians and left-wing progressives. He denounced various aspects of social policy, including feminism and measures against climate change, claiming there is hope to dismantle what he sees as a problematic ideological structure. Trump and other leaders, according to Milei, are joining forces for global freedom against what he termed the “mental virus” of woke ideology.
A message delivered on behalf of Pope Francis echoed themes of fraternity and responsibility, urging careful consideration of artificial intelligence (AI) in relation to human dignity. Cardinal Peter Turkson emphasized the beneficial potential of AI when utilized correctly, but also highlighted the need for it to contribute to greater justice and social relations rather than merely technical advancements.
Amid rising tensions in Europe regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte called for continued support from Ukraine’s Western allies. Rutte warned that any unfavorable negotiations with Russia could lead to detrimental geopolitical consequences, including strengthening undesirable alliances. Richard Grenell, recently appointed by Trump to oversee special missions, asserted that the former president faces significant challenges related to the conflict but can exert credible pressure on both parties to facilitate a resolution. Grenell stated that maintaining economic and military pressure on Putin remains a valid strategy for Trump.
Overall, the discussions at the World Economic Forum highlight the complex interplay between economic policy, international relations, and emerging ideological battles, with leaders from various sectors weighing in on the path forward for their nations and the globe.
