US President Donald Trump has delivered a wide-ranging speech emphasising what he described as his administration’s economic and geopolitical successes, while reigniting controversy over Greenland and outlining his views on Europe’s future.
While addressing the ‘World Economic Forum’, Trump called Greenland essential to US security and a strategic asset due to its key geographic location, noting that Russia and China are active in the Arctic region. Trump’s remarks about Greenland have escalated tensions with European allies, particularly Denmark, which retains sovereign control over the island.
Although he stressed he would not use force to acquire Greenland, he reiterated long-standing US interest in the island and the need for further talks, a stance that has alarmed European and Danish officials.
President Trump stated that the US gives a lot to NATO and gets very little in return. He added that America has no problem with NATO. He claimed he stopped a war between Pakistan and India and ended eight wars.
He said Greenland should not have been evacuated after World War II, but stated that he would not use force against Greenland, adding that the US wants “a piece of ice.” He described the US operation in Venezuela as brilliant and said that Iran’s nuclear facilities were destroyed.
Trump claimed that inflation in the United States had fallen to 1.5 percent during his tenure and attributed economic growth to his tariff policies. He argued that the US has become a “global economic hub,” touted large investments, and declared that historic deals with Japan and South Korea have strengthened U.S. influence.
In his address, Trump referenced several foreign policy themes, he asserted that Europe is “not going in the right direction” and suggested that following US policy would lead to similar development gains.
Trump reaffirmed strong cooperation with Venezuela, claiming receipt of 50 million barrels of oil and positive relations with its leadership.
Criticising NATO’s contribution balance, he said the US gives more to the alliance than it receives in return, yet insisted America still supports NATO.
Read more: Trump links Greenland push to Nobel snub
