New York, Jan 21: Global leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos have called for greater unity among middle powers in response to growing geopolitical assertiveness by major nations, following US President Donald Trump’s renewed interest in acquiring Greenland and his remarks about annexing Canada.
French President Emmanuel Macron warned that the world is entering a phase of deep instability and imbalance, stressing that cooperation is the only viable response. “The answer lies in building bridges and strengthening cooperation with emerging nations, including BRICS and the G20,” Macron said, cautioning that global fragmentation would serve no one. India is a key member of both groupings.
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney echoed the sentiment, bluntly stating, “The middle powers must act together because if you are not at the table, you’re on the menu.” He added that while great powers can increasingly afford to act unilaterally, the current moment represents a “breaking of the world order” and the end of what he called a “pleasant fiction.” Without directly naming Trump or the US, Carney said the world is witnessing a rupture, not a transition.
Trump has threatened to impose a 10 per cent tariff next month on France and seven other countries supporting Denmark against his demand to annex Greenland, with the tariff potentially rising to 25 per cent by June. He has also stated that he wants to buy Greenland and has not ruled out military action.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned that such actions could trigger a “dangerous downward spiral” that would benefit adversaries seeking to destabilise the global order.
US officials sought to reassure European leaders at Davos. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged calm, likening the tariff threats to earlier moves that ultimately led to negotiations. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer suggested the tariffs were a negotiating tactic, while noting Trump’s firm expectations.
Macron accused the US of seeking to weaken Europe through tariffs and said the rules-based global order is eroding. He also highlighted challenges posed by China’s excess industrial capacity and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, warning that trade wars and protectionism would only create losers. Reaffirming Europe’s commitment to sovereignty and the UN Charter, Macron said cooperation—grounded in shared history and alliances—remains the only sustainable path forward.
