DAVOS: US President Donald Trump sparked controversy at the World Economic Forum in Davos after declaring that Canada “lives because of the United States” and suggesting Prime Minister Mark Carney “should be grateful,” as he used his speech to praise the US economy while publicly taking aim at several allied leaders.
According to the BBC, Trump’s remarks that came a day after the Canadian leader delivered a high-profile Davos speech criticising major powers for weaponising economic influence. Trump accused Canada of benefiting from US “freebies”, comments that quickly drew attention north of the border.
Carney’s Davos address, widely praised at home, warned that the old global order was not returning and urged smaller nations to resist coercion by great powers.
US tariffs
His remarks come as Canada grapples with US tariffs on sectors such as metals and automobiles and prepares for a mandatory review of the USMCA trade agreement, which is crucial given that around 75 per cent of Canadian exports go to the United States.
Trump also mocked French President Emmanuel Macron, making light of the blue reflective sunglasses Macron wore during his own Davos speech. French officials later said Macron was wearing them due to a minor eye condition. Trump declined to engage with Macron’s policy remarks, instead questioning his political longevity.
The US president further criticised former Swiss president Karin Keller-Sutter, recounting a past dispute over tariffs and describing her as “repetitive”. He said Switzerland’s import duties were initially raised before later being reduced, though he warned they could rise again.
Trump’s blunt comments underscored growing tensions with allies as trade disputes and geopolitical disagreements intensify.
