Trump’s Absence at Davos Stirs Debate Among Global Leaders

Though Donald Trump’s absence at Davos in person, his video address arrives as the World Economic Forum concludes, maintaining his dominance in discussions. His absence hasn’t diminished his presence; leaders from across the globe continue to weigh in on his potential return to power.

Supporters Celebrate Critics Exercise Caution

Argentine President Javier Milei lauds Trump’s vision, praising his global approach to trade and geopolitics. Ukrainian President Zelensky shares optimism toward the new U.S. administration, while German Chancellor Scholz remains cautious, reflecting broader skepticism from Europe.

Trump’s Principles Will Lead to Global Improvement

Milei, a staunch libertarian, explained Trump’s strategies as aligned with U.S. geopolitical interests. His support for tariffs, Milei suggests, isn’t protectionist but rather a strategic approach to the nation’s global influence. “Trump understands the U.S.’s role and its commercial policy,” Milei told Bloomberg’s John Micklethwait.

Global Leaders Ready to Follow Trump’s Playbook

Other leaders, while not as enthusiastic, expressed willingness to align with Trump’s policy direction. Finnish President Alexander Stubb said his country would certainly follow Trump’s views, citing the need to adapt to global shifts.

A More Lighthearted Trump Discussion

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s lighthearted comment about playing golf for his country garnered laughter, demonstrating a more relaxed approach to discussing Trump’s influence.

Shift in Perception of Trump’s Global Impact

A year ago, European leaders like ECB’s Christine Lagarde were more skeptical of Trump’s return. Now, figures like Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte accept Trump’s role in initiating important debates, including defense spending, which was once a controversial subject.

Sweden and Others Tread Carefully Around Trump

Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson carefully navigated the conversation, acknowledging the differences in U.S. and European politics. Even leaders targeted by Elon Musk, a key Trump ally, kept diplomatic stances.

European Central Bank Maintains Plans Amid Shifting U.S. Economic Landscape

The European Central Bank (ECB) is set to continue interest-rate cuts despite early shifts in U.S. economic policy linked to Donald Trump’s potential return…

Musk’s Influence Draws European Diplomacy

German Chancellor Scholz addressed Musk’s support for the far-right indirectly, emphasizing Europe’s commitment to free speech. UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves dismissed Musk’s influence, even as governments grapple with his power.

Speculation About Trump’s Surprise Appearance

Some attendees speculated about Trump’s potential surprise appearance, as Poland’s outgoing president, Andrzej Duda, expressed interest. China, in contrast, kept a low profile, celebrating the Lunar New Year with less fanfare.

China Avoids U.S.-China Tariff Discussion

Qatari Finance Minister Ali Ahmed Al-Kuwari reflected on the complexity of U.S.-China relations, making clear Qatar’s neutrality while acknowledging the double-edged nature of tariffs.

Zelensky Stresses U.S. Role in Peace Efforts

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the critical role the U.S. must play in any potential peacekeeping efforts, dismissing European notions that peace could be achieved without American involvement. “No one will risk it without the U.S.,” Zelensky stated, underscoring the importance of U.S. leadership in global conflict resolution.

Donald Trump’s absence from Davos underscores his lasting influence, his virtual speech
sparking the world debate about his possible political return despite his physical absence. Its impact on world leaders remains undeniable, according to wsj news.