Davos: Europe criticizes Trump

At the Davos WEF on January 20, 2026, key European leaders spoke about new global realities and serious risks for a multipolar world. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that 'US competition is aimed at subordinating Europe' and called for greater direct Chinese investment in key sectors of the continent to reduce dependence on American technology. He also turned to the issue of peace policy, noting that the number of conflicts in 2024 exceeded 60 cases.

The European Union's leading representative, Kaja Kallas, emphasized that no country has the right to seize the territory of another, regardless of where it happens. Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever stressed the need to develop independent technological platforms and expressed concerns that Trump could use economic dominance to 'make people slaves.' In his view, Europe must gain 'its own strength' to engage in an equal dialogue with the US, Russia, and China.

The Davos leaders raised the issue of conflict security and international relations. They also noted that the transatlantic alliance no longer appears reliable, and the new US strategy focused on the Pacific could increase tensions on the global stage.

Context

The World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos annually brings together world leaders to discuss key economic and political issues.