In his address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, US President Donald Trump reaffirmed his ‘America First’ agenda, demanding higher defence spending from NATO allies, threatening tariffs on companies manufacturing outside the US, and linking lower oil prices to resolving the war in Ukraine.
Trump reiterated his stance on trade, urging businesses to manufacture in America or face tariffs. He announced a corporate tax reduction for US manufacturers and criticized the EU for what he described as unfair trade practices and regulatory hurdles.
Turning to NATO, Trump called for member countries to raise defence spending to 5% of GDP, challenging European leaders who have faced opposition to increasing military budgets. His demand is expected to spark debate within the alliance.
In a controversial statement, Trump suggested that lower oil prices could end the conflict in Ukraine, pledging to pressure Saudi Arabia and OPEC to reduce prices. He expressed a willingness to meet with Russian President Putin to negotiate peace.
Amid concerns about US LNG exports, Trump assured European allies that shipments would continue and pledged to fast-track energy projects to stabilize prices.
While Trump’s speech reflected his familiar approach to diplomacy, the changed global landscape since his last presidential term poses new challenges for European leaders, who must navigate a renewed era of US engagement under Trump’s leadership.
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