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Donald Trump's tariff threats hang over World Economic Forum

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Michael Wetzel
January 20, 2026

This year's World Economic Forum in Davos takes place in tense times. In addition to the crises in Ukraine and Iran, there is now the dispute over Greenland. Will Trump's visit defuse tensions or further escalate the situation?

The World Economic Forum in Davos opens against a backdrop of escalating geopolitical and economic uncertainty. The United States is drawing particular attention this year, operating its own "USA House" and sending the largest US delegation ever to the summit.

With more than 60 heads of state attending, the agenda spans conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East and growing strains in global trade. US President Donald Trump’s presence has sharpened concerns in Europe after renewed tariff threats raised the prospect of retaliation and further friction. While the forum's theme, "A Spirit of Dialogue," underscores hopes for cooperation, economists warn that the global outlook remains fragile. As political risk and economic volatility intersect, Davos once again serves as a barometer of whether dialogue can prevail over division.

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