The arrival of U.S. President Trump at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on January 21st and 22nd is generating significant international attention. This is not his first appearance at the Forum, but his return comes with increased uncertainty, as his administration signals a willingness to challenge established multilateral relationships, potentially impacting the European Union, NATO, and Western unity.
Key Meetings and Priorities
President Trump is scheduled to deliver a ‘special address’ on Wednesday and intends to convene the newly formed Board of Peace on Thursday, focused on the situation in Gaza. Leaders at the Forum, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and French President Emmanuel Macron, will attempt to address international crises including the reconstruction of Gaza, the situation in Ukraine, and the status of Greenland.
Ukraine and Potential Russian Involvement
Ukraine is expected to be a central topic of discussion. President Volodymyr Zelensky is arriving in Davos seeking security guarantees from NATO and the U.S., and is planning a ‘special address’ – though this was not confirmed by the World Economic Forum organization. Reports indicate that Kirill Dmitriev, a Russian presidential advisor for foreign investment and negotiator with Washington, may also attend to meet with a U.S. delegation, a move that would represent a significant symbolic gesture given the limited presence of high-ranking Russian diplomats at the Forum in recent years.
Escalating Tensions Over Greenland
Concerns are also rising over Greenland. Following Trump’s stated intention to annex the territory, his Treasury Secretary warned that European tariffs in response would be “very imprudent” and that the U.S. would not “outsource” its hemispheric security. Denmark has cancelled its participation in Davos and is reinforcing its troops in Greenland. A meeting of national security advisors from several countries, including those within the EU, was held in Davos – organized and secured by Switzerland, not the Forum – to discuss both Ukraine and Greenland.
Gaza and Shifting Alliances
President Trump intends to use the Davos platform to launch the Council for Gaza, led by Jared Kushner and Steven Witkoff. However, reports suggest France, under President Macron, may not participate, adding to existing tensions between Paris and Washington. The potential attendance of leaders such as Vladimir Putin, Alexander Lukashenko, and Benjamin Netanyahu further complicates the situation, and it remains uncertain whether Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni will attend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Board of Peace?
The Board of Peace is a newly-constituted committee initiated by President Trump, intended to focus on the pacification of Gaza, as well as issues related to Ukraine and Greenland.
Who is Kirill Dmitriev?
Kirill Dmitriev is a presidential advisor for foreign investment and a negotiator with Washington, and reports suggest he may attend the World Economic Forum in Davos to meet with a U.S. delegation.
What has been Denmark’s response to the situation in Greenland?
Denmark has cancelled its presence at the World Economic Forum in Davos and announced a reinforcement of its troops in Greenland.
As world leaders gather in Davos, will they be able to navigate these complex challenges and forge a path toward stability, or will the ‘Trump 2.0’ approach further destabilize the international order?
Related reading