Gavin Newsom, rather than Donald Trump, is grabbing headlines in Davos - here's what he said

California Governor Gavin Newsom sharply criticized Donald Trump in Davos and delivered a blunt warning to Europe ahead of President Donald Trump’s highly anticipated address at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Speaking amid rising tension over Greenland and trade threats, Newsom accused President Trump of reckless power politics. His remarks came as European leaders braced for economic and diplomatic fallout.


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What did Gavin Newsom say about President Trump’s approach to Europe?

Speaking to reporters in Davos, Gavin Newsom did not soften his words. The California governor, widely viewed as a leading Democratic contender for 2028, accused President Trump of misleading European allies and abandoning diplomacy altogether.

“This guy is playing people for fools. This isn't diplomacy, it's stupidity," Newsom said.
“He’s a T-Rex: you either meet him head-on or he devours you, one way or the other.”

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Newsom urged European leaders to respond collectively rather than cautiously, warning that traditional diplomatic playbooks no longer apply.

“They need to stand tall, stand firm, and stand united,” he said. "You’re still playing by a rulebook that no longer applies." "He’s unmoored. This is the law of the jungle — the rule of raw power."

Why is Greenland at the center of the dispute?

The remarks come against the backdrop of renewed controversy surrounding Greenland. In recent days, President Trump has described the territory as central to U.S. security interests, sparking alarm across Europe.

Trump said he held a “very good” phone call with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, during which Greenland featured prominently. Writing on Truth Social, Trump confirmed plans to meet with “the various parties” on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum, as per a report by ANI.

"I agreed to a meeting of the various parties in Davos, Switzerland." "As I expressed to everyone, very plainly, Greenland is imperative for National and World Security. There can be no going back -- On that, everyone agrees!" Trump wrote.

Shortly afterward, Trump shared an AI-generated image showing himself planting a U.S. flag in Greenland, alongside Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The image included a sign reading: “GREENLAND – US TERRITORY EST. 2026.”


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What did Trump say about European resistance?

When asked how European leaders opposing his Greenland plans might respond, Trump dismissed the likelihood of strong resistance, as per a report by ANI.

“I don't think they're gonna push back too much. We have to have it. They have to have this done,” he said.

Newsom, however, warned that such thinking reflects a dangerous worldview.

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How are European leaders reacting?

Trump’s comments and imagery intensified unease across Europe, particularly after he threatened new tariffs on European allies opposing his Greenland plan. He warned that several countries could face a 10 percent duty on all exports to the United States starting February 1, as per a report by ANI.

German and French leaders condemned the move as “blackmail,” while Paris insisted Europe must be ready to respond. Markets reacted swiftly, with European stocks sliding as investors moved toward precious metals.

The European Union announced it would hold an emergency summit on January 22, emphasizing that it preferred to “engage not escalate,” while making clear it was prepared to act if necessary.

FAQs

Why did Gavin Newsom criticize Donald Trump in Davos?
He said Trump’s approach toward Europe and Greenland was reckless and not genuine diplomacy.

What has Europe done in response?
EU leaders announced an emergency summit while markets reacted with sharp declines.