Global leaders usually head to Davos to deliver carefully polished speeches about economics and diplomacy.
Donald Trump, however, took a very different approach on Wednesday.
The US President used his appearance at the World Economic Forum to touch on everything from NATO and immigration to energy policy and global conflicts — while also producing a series of eyebrow-raising moments that quickly stole attention from the substance of his remarks.
Greenland, NATO, and a Name That Went Wrong
While revisiting his long-standing interest in acquiring Greenland, Trump drifted into NATO politics and appeared to mix up his geography.
At one point, he referred to Greenland as Iceland while criticizing America’s allies, telling the audience that NATO partners weren’t stepping up when it came to “Iceland.”
He suggested European leaders had warmed to him only after he raised the issue, claiming they “loved” him once he brought it up.
The comments added confusion to an already sensitive topic, especially given ongoing tensions between the US and Europe over security commitments.
Wind Power, Green Policies, and Controversial Claims
Trump also launched into a fierce attack on renewable energy and climate-focused policies, singling out wind power for criticism.
He argued that countries adopting green energy had suffered from reduced electricity output and higher prices, blaming the situation on what he described as poor decision-making.
Taking things further, he claimed these policies had led to wider social problems, including slower economic growth, declining living standards, weaker militaries, increased migration, and even lower birth rates.
He dismissed wind turbines as products only “stupid people” would buy, particularly if they came from China.
A Sharp Dig at Emmanuel Macron’s Sunglasses
The US President couldn’t resist commenting on French President Emmanuel Macron’s appearance at Davos the day before.
Trump mocked Macron’s aviator sunglasses and accused him of pretending to be tough during discussions on pharmaceutical pricing.
Trump said he confronted Macron directly over drug costs, accusing France of benefiting from lower prices at America’s expense for decades.
According to Trump, he warned the French leader that prices would eventually have to rise to match US levels.
Zelensky, Ukraine, and Mixed Signals on Peace
Trump told the audience that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would be meeting him later that day, even suggesting Zelensky might already be sitting in the crowd — despite Zelensky’s office confirming he was in Kyiv at the time.
He went on to claim that a deal to end the war between Russia and Ukraine was “reasonably close,” accusing both sides of pulling back from agreements.
Trump added that it would be “stupid” for the leaders involved not to bring the conflict to an end.
Confusion Over Switzerland and a Tense Phone Call
Another puzzling moment came when Trump recalled a phone call with Switzerland’s leader, whom he described as a female prime minister.
Switzerland, however, has a male president and does not have a prime minister.
Trump said the call followed his proposal to impose tariffs on Swiss watches, arguing the country benefited from a massive trade surplus with the US.
He claimed the Swiss leader repeatedly pushed back, insisting Switzerland was a small country — a conversation Trump admitted “rubbed” him the wrong way.
Azerbaijan, Armenia, and a Slip of the Tongue
While discussing his role in easing tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia, Trump stumbled over the country’s name, referring to it as “Abba-baijan.”
The mispronunciation added to a growing list of moments that left listeners unsure whether to laugh or cringe.
Xi Jinping and Dropping the “China Virus” Label
Trump also reflected on his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping, praising him as highly respected and accomplished.
He said their rapport suffered during the Covid pandemic, particularly over Trump’s use of the term “China virus.”
According to Trump, Xi personally asked him to stop using that phrase, and he agreed to switch to a different name, presenting the exchange as an example of their otherwise strong relationship.
World War II, Greenland, and Stark Warnings
Doubling down on his Greenland argument, Trump claimed the US “won” the Second World War and stressed the island’s importance to American security.
He questioned why Greenland was returned after the war and criticized what he saw as a lack of gratitude today.
He warned that modern warfare posed risks greater than ever before, hinting at weapons too dangerous to even describe publicly.
No Force, But a Clear Warning
Despite his aggressive rhetoric, Trump insisted he would not use military force to acquire Greenland.
He acknowledged that the US could take it by overwhelming strength if he chose to, but said he would not pursue that path.
Instead, he framed the situation as a choice for Europe: agree to the US request and earn appreciation, or refuse and face long memories.
The message was blunt, leaving little doubt that the issue remains firmly on Trump’s agenda.
What Comes Next?
Trump’s Davos appearance blended policy, provocation, and personal commentary into a single, unpredictable performance.
Whether his remarks shift global negotiations or simply fuel headlines, one thing is clear — his approach continues to challenge diplomatic norms and keep allies guessing about what he’ll say next.
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