At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on January 22, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump hit the stage with his trademark “America First” energy 🌎. Surrounded by global leaders committed to cooperation, his message felt like a wild plot twist in a blockbuster series.
On Wednesday, he doubled down on heavy tariffs, floated fresh talks about Greenland, and celebrated a claimed 77% drop in America’s trade deficit— all without spelling out a clear backup plan 📈. While he hailed big wins for U.S. producers, researchers warn that families are shouldering nearly $3,800 a year in extra costs from pricier imports.
For years, Davos has been the go-to spot for pushing open markets and shared rules. Trump’s call for strategic protectionism clashes head-on with that script, leaving investors and businesses on edge. Imagine cheering for your favorite team, only to find out the game is suddenly played by a new rulebook.
Critics say treating trade like a zero-sum game risks rocking the boat for all. If talks here are meant to reassure the world that a rules-based system lives on, an address heavy on unilateral moves and light on collaboration could fuel uncertainty instead of confidence.
As Davos winds down, one big question remains: Can bold, nation-first tactics find a place in our deeply connected world? Or will the real power move be finding common ground? 🤔
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
