Trump's speech raised concerns among European allies. He began by praising the economic achievements of the U.S., but focused primarily on issues related to Greenland, NATO, and criticism of Europe.
Negotiations on Greenland President Trump announced his intention to immediately begin negotiations for the acquisition of Greenland. He reminded that American presidents have been trying to acquire this island for nearly two centuries, and during World War II, the U.S. controlled it after the occupation of Denmark.
Although Trump did not threaten the use of force, he pointed out that, in his opinion, only Washington can guarantee the security of Greenland. He said, "You can say 'yes,' and we will be very grateful, or you can say 'no,' and we will remember that." Trump characterized the issue of Greenland as a "small request" compared to the U.S. contribution to NATO.
Criticism of Europe and tariff threats Trump harshly criticized European leaders, claiming that Europe is going "the wrong way." He pointed to a number of issues, including mass migration and budget and trade deficits.
Additionally, the president warned of the possibility of imposing tariffs on goods from eight NATO countries, including France and the United Kingdom, if negotiations on Greenland do not succeed. According to him, tariffs could be set at 10% starting February 1 and rise to 25% by June. He specifically mentioned the introduction of a 200% tariff on French wine after French President Emmanuel Macron refused to support his initiative regarding Gaza.
Trump added that the United States is no longer willing to "subsidize the whole world."
NATO and Ukraine Discussing NATO, the president noted that the U.S. bears an unfair burden and expressed doubt that European allies would reciprocate: "The U.S. supports NATO 100%, but I'm not sure they will respond in kind."
Trump also announced plans to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the forum and stated that both leaders, Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, are allegedly seeking to reach an agreement to end the conflict.
Relations with China and protests in Minnesota Trump expressed support for good relations with Chinese President Xi Jinping, calling him an "incredible person," and noted that at the request of the Chinese leader, he stopped using the term "Chinese virus."
During the Q&A session, Trump commented on the protests in Minnesota, describing the protesters as "rebels" and claiming without evidence that they are allegedly funded by "agitators" and are "fake." He added that the administration plans to investigate possible fraud in the distribution of federal funds in the state.
The protests began after an ICE officer shot 37-year-old Minneapolis resident Reni Nicole Good on January 7. Later, on January 14, another federal agent shot Venezuelan Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis during an attempted arrest.
