Davos, Switzerland. US President Donald Trump issued European leaders an ultimatum over his bid to acquire Greenland and highlighted claims of a large Venezuelan oil transfer during a speech at the World Economic Forum.
He also criticised European climate policy, commented on Germany’s energy situation, and said he would meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy later today.
Ultimatum on Greenland and NATO protection
Speaking in Davos, Trump told European leaders they faced a choice regarding Greenland: “You can say yes and we’ll be very appreciative, and you can say no and we will remember.” He linked the acquisition to future US protection for Europe, describing the mineral-rich island as essential for a “Golden Dome” missile shield to protect NATO.
Trump said he would not use “excessive strength and force” to take Greenland “for now,” while insisting the United States is the only country capable of securing the territory against Russian and Chinese interests.
Claims about Venezuela and oil
Trump said Venezuela is set to do “fantastically well” following a recent US-backed intervention and the abduction of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro earlier this month. He said the United States has secured 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil seized from tankers and storage, and claimed the revenue would be controlled by Washington to “benefit the people.”
Criticism of EU climate policy and remarks on Germany
Trump rejected European climate policy and criticised the EU’s transition to renewable energy as a “green new scam,” blaming windmills for “catastrophically high” energy prices. He also praised German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, saying Germany’s energy crisis was “not Chancellor Merz’s fault” and that the leader is “solving the problem” inherited from his predecessors.
Ukraine meeting and comments on Russia
Trump is scheduled to meet Zelenskyy later today and said he is “dealing with President Putin” to reach a deal to end the war.
What do you think European leaders will do in response to Trump’s Greenland ultimatum?