Amid rising global tensions, President Trump is poised to address the World Economic Forum in Davos this week, a move that is drawing significant international attention.
STEVE INSKEEP, HOST:
President Trump’s approach to international relations has taken a personal turn as he engages in direct communication through text messages with world leaders.
MICHEL MARTIN, HOST:
In one text, Trump informed the Prime Minister of Norway of his intent to acquire Greenland, citing the lack of a Nobel Peace Prize as a motive. The message, which has caused a stir, was shared by Trump, alongside a message from France’s President. The French leader initially praised Trump but then shifted to the contentious Greenland issue, suggesting a dinner discussion.
INSKEEP: This week, world leaders are gathering at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. NPR’s Danielle Kurtzleben is reporting from the event. Danielle, what can you tell us?
DANIELLE KURTZLEBEN, BYLINE: Good morning. The U.S. delegation has a busy agenda in Europe. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is set to speak in Davos today, with President Trump scheduled to speak on Wednesday. On Thursday, the White House plans to announce a new charter for the Board of Peace, an initiative Trump established to aid in the reconstruction of Gaza amid ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. While details are scarce, White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett hinted at a new housing policy announcement, and Trump is likely to discuss tariffs, having recently threatened European countries with tariffs unless the U.S. acquires Greenland.
INSKEEP: For those who missed the developments over the holidays, what can you tell us about these tariff threats?
KURTZLEBEN: President Trump announced a plan to impose a 10% tariff on goods from eight European countries starting February 1, increasing to 25% by June, contingent on a Greenland acquisition deal. The legal grounds for such a move remain unclear, and inquiries to the White House on this have gone unanswered. Meanwhile, the targeted European nations, all NATO members, have expressed support for Denmark and Greenland, a Danish territory.
INSKEEP: Once again, President Trump has managed to capture global attention with these moves and his personal communications with world leaders. Can you elaborate on these text exchanges?
KURTZLEBEN: Over the weekend, a notable text exchange occurred when Trump informed the Norwegian Prime Minister that he feels less compelled to prioritize peace due to not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, asserting that “Greenlanders would be better served if protected by the United States.” This stance is not universally shared. French President Emmanuel Macron, in a text to Trump, expressed confusion over the Greenland issue, stating, “I do not understand what you are doing on Greenland.”
INSKEEP: Macron’s message also included some praise for Trump. “You’re doing a great job in Syria,” he said, and proposed a dinner meeting. What else is Trump pursuing internationally?
KURTZLEBEN: The Board of Peace, which Trump announced as part of his strategy to address the Israel-Hamas conflict, is another key focus. The White House plans to unveil the charter for this board on Thursday. NPR obtained a draft of the charter, revealing that nations must pay a billion dollars for a permanent seat, with Trump as the permanent chair. This board aims to enhance international peace efforts and has prompted concerns about creating a rival to the U.N. Reports suggest that Trump has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to join, and it’s unclear how traditional U.S. allies will respond.
INSKEEP: Thank you, Danielle. NPR’s Danielle Kurtzleben, reporting from Davos.
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