Trump Returns to Davos After 6 Years: What Could Shake Geopolitics?

On January 21, the World Economic Forum annual meeting (Davos Forum) entered its third day. Former U.S. President Donald Trump planned to attend and deliver a special speech. Unlike previous years, his arrival had already become the earliest and most widely discussed topic at this year’s Davos.

Historically, it is rare for a U.S. president to attend Davos in person. Trump appeared in 2018 and 2020, making him one of the few U.S. presidents willing to personally attend. His presence casts a shadow over the forum, influencing discussions from public speeches to private meetings and even the sentiments of ordinary Europeans.

Heightened Security Outside the Venue
On the day before the forum, reporters traveling from Zurich Airport to Davos were stopped by police. Several Asian passengers were asked to provide detailed personal information, including overseas addresses. While no official explanation was given, attendees widely speculated that the measures were linked to Trump’s imminent arrival.

Inside the Forum: Restraint and Tension in Public Speeches
During the formal agenda, discussions about Trump and his policies were largely indirect. French President Emmanuel Macron warned against unilateral pressure and the use of tariffs, which could undermine multilateral governance. California Governor Gavin Newsom was more direct, criticizing European leaders for being “two-faced” and cautioning that Trump’s military and geopolitical moves should not be underestimated.

Closed-Door Discussions: Realistic Assessments
In private settings, Trump was a focal point. Multinational executives and investors expressed concern that policy reversals and sudden decisions could disrupt long-term investments and supply chains. European citizens expressed unease over Trump’s statements regarding Greenland and tariffs on allies supporting Denmark, fearing that unchecked actions could escalate.

Trump’s Likely Talking Points at Davos
According to disclosed plans, Trump’s Davos agenda includes:

1. Special speech: Expected to focus on U.S. economic policies, trade positions, and global security, with emphasis on tariffs, burden-sharing by allies, and resource and security issues.
2. Private meetings: The U.S. delegation has set up “USA House” near the venue to communicate with political and business leaders, but no official bilateral meetings are scheduled.

Overall, Trump’s presence at Davos is more than a personal appearance; it may influence European and global political and business judgments well beyond the forum itself.