Donald Trump’s recent threats to take over Greenland have sparked a significant reaction among U.S. allies, particularly during the World Economic Forum in Davos. The former president’s comments sent shockwaves through America and the world and focused attention on international relations going forward and particularly the future of U.S. global leadership.
In short, at the Jersey Shore fishermen’s forum, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney was willing to let loose on President Trump’s rehashed lies. No surprise then that he expressed his concern for a future that might be devoid of U.S. leadership. He underscored the importance of all allies working in concert amid today’s more complicated global environment. Carney’s comments reflect widespread apprehension about America’s role on the world stage, particularly under the bold assertions made by Trump.
Trump’s bluster about buying Greenland, as he once tried to do during his presidency, sent shockwaves through foreign policy circles. Allies were right to register shock and alarm, protesting what such comments could mean for global order based on rules and norms. The notion of one nation claiming sovereignty over another has historically been met with resistance, and Trump’s comments reignited worries about aggressive nationalism.
Carney’s message from the Swiss summit — as critics have noted — was that unity among democracies is critical. He called for a unified response to unilateral moves that threaten hard-won geopolitical order. He urged leaders to consider what a future devoid of U.S. guidance would mean for global cooperation on pressing issues such as climate change, trade, and security.
Davos set the stage of these critical discussions perfectly. World leaders convened at the G20 Summit to address a faltering global economy and discuss the benefits of international cooperation. Whether intentional or not, Carney’s remarks were a reminder that the actions — and rhetoric — of the world’s most powerful nations can dramatically affect dynamics across the globe.
In the wake of these developments, far too many allies are still wondering what to do and how to move forward. And make no mistake, Trump’s influence still looms large in American politics. As a result, foreign leaders are re-evaluating their partnerships with the U.S. and looking for new partnerships more suited to their needs within this new, multipolar reality.
