President Donald Trump’s special address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, marked a bold and unapologetic return to the global stage, delivered just one day after the one-year anniversary of his second inauguration. The lengthy speech—lasting over an hour—combined triumphant claims of domestic success with sharp criticisms of European policies, NATO dynamics, and global elites, while prominently featuring his ongoing push to acquire Greenland.
Trump opened by celebrating what he described as the “fastest and most dramatic economic turnaround in our country’s history.” He highlighted defeated inflation, surging growth exceeding IMF projections, booming manufacturing, a sealed border, and record energy production from oil, gas, and a push toward nuclear power. He touted goals like gasoline prices below $2 per gallon, doubled steel production, and U.S. dominance in AI ahead of China. Trump positioned America as the “growth engine of the world,” benefiting global partners through its prosperity.
A significant portion focused on international relations and security. Trump reiterated his desire for the U.S. to acquire Greenland, framing it as essential for Arctic security and protection against Russian and Chinese influence. He stressed that only the United States could provide true security for the territory, calling it “part of North America” and part of a broader strategic imperative. Notably, he explicitly ruled out using military force, stating negotiations were underway and that a “framework of a future deal” had been formed with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte shortly after the speech, encompassing Greenland and the Arctic region. This announcement aimed to ease tensions while advancing U.S. interests in minerals, defense, and regional stability.
Trump directed pointed criticism at Europe, saying parts of the continent are “no longer recognizable” in a negative way due to green energy policies, mass migration, and cultural shifts. He expressed a desire for Europe to thrive but warned it was “not heading in the right direction.” He defended tariffs as tools for fairness and reciprocity, threatening or imposing them on allies like Switzerland, France, and Canada when feeling disrespected or shortchanged.
On NATO, Trump repeated long-standing grievances, claiming the U.S. bears disproportionate costs and that allies benefit unfairly from American protection. He affirmed full support for the alliance but demanded better reciprocity.
Other highlights included praise for progress in Venezuela (with oil opportunities and leadership changes), crypto market regulation (noting Congress’s work on structure and his intent to sign related legislation soon), housing affordability measures (banning corporate bulk buying and mortgage debt relief), and cultural defense against importing “failed” societies.
The address drew a mixed reception in the room—polite applause amid moments of tension—reflecting the divide between Trump’s “America First” vision and the multilateral ethos of Davos. Post-speech, Trump engaged in interviews and meetings, reinforcing his themes of strength, deals, and U.S. leadership.
Overall, the speech served as both a victory lap for his first year’s achievements and a stern message to the world: America is back on top, willing to cooperate but unwilling to be taken advantage of. It underscored Trump’s approach of blending economic bravado, strategic assertiveness, and direct challenges to global norms.
SOURCES:
‘We gave Greenland back to Denmark’: Fact-checking Donald Trump’s speech in Europe :: WRAL.com
January 21, 2026 – Trump in Davos | CNN Politics
Here’s a Look at Everything (and Everyone) Trump Targeted at Davos – The New York Times
