Trump lashed out at Carney after his speech in Davos
The American president stated that Canada exists thanks to the United States and should be grateful.
U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for his speech at the World Economic Forum. The American leader expressed dissatisfaction that Canada, in his view, doesn't sufficiently appreciate the help and protection provided by the United States.
The American President's Grievances
Speaking in Davos, Switzerland, Trump stated that his proposed "Golden Dome" defense system would automatically protect Canada as well. He emphasized that the northern neighbor receives many benefits from the U.S. but doesn't show proper gratitude.
"I watched your prime minister yesterday, he wasn't very grateful," the American president noted. He added that Canada exists thanks to the United States and urged Carney to remember this in future public statements.
The Canadian Prime Minister's Policy Speech
The day before, Carney spoke at the same forum with a 17-minute speech outlining a new direction for Canada and other middle powers. The prime minister stated that the old rules-based international order isn't coming back.
In his address, the Canadian leader noted that great powers have started using economic integration as a weapon. He mentioned tariffs as a tool of pressure, financial infrastructure as a means of coercion, and supply chains as vulnerabilities to be exploited. However, Carney didn't directly name the U.S. or Trump.
Position on Greenland
The Canadian prime minister also voiced strong support for Greenland and firm opposition to tariffs against this territory. Trump has repeatedly insisted that the United States needs the Danish autonomous territory for national security purposes.
In his Davos speech, the American president clarified that he doesn't plan to seize Greenland by force. "I don't need to use force. I don't want to use force. I won't use force," he stated, adding that the U.S. is simply asking for a place called Greenland.
Canadian Response
Carney's speech at the World Economic Forum was his first as prime minister and received widespread approval. The Prime Minister's Office said it wouldn't comment on the American president's remarks. Carney himself also declined to respond to Trump's comments when journalists in Davos asked him to address the situation.
