‘Europe Not Heading In Right Direction’: Trump Fires Back At EU In Davos

US President Donald Trump launched a sharp critique of Europe’s current course while addressing the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, saying several parts of the continent are no longer recognisable and warning that Europe is “not heading in the right direction.”

US President Donald Trump launched a sharp critique of Europe’s current course while addressing the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, saying several parts of the continent are no longer recognisable and warning that Europe is “not heading in the right direction.”

“Certain places in Europe are not even recognisable, frankly, anymore,” Trump said.

Trump clarified that his remarks were not intended to insult anyone and said, “We can argue about it, but there’s no argument. I don't want to insult anybody and say, I don't recognise it and that's not in a positive way. That's in a very negative way.”

He emphasised his long-standing affection for the region and said, “I love Europe, and I want to see Europe go good, but it’s not heading in the right direction.”

Earlier on Wednesday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for greater European independence in economic and security matters, noting the rapid global changes, while reaffirming Greenland's sovereignty and territorial integrity amid US President Donald Trump's threat to annex the Arctic Island.

During her opening speech at the European Parliament, the EU Chief noted the shift in the global order, acknowledging the uncertainties and volatility across many parts of the globe.

"Since I stood last time here in this plenary, we have witnessed events that have shaken the world. From the nationwide protests and repression across Iran to the seizing of shadow fleet tankers in the North Atlantic. From the volatile situation around the Arctic and Greenland to the relentless bombing against Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure, from the tensions in the Middle East to the Indo-Pacific, all of this reflects a number of realities for Europe," von der Leyen said, ANI reported.

She described the global order as "seismic and permanent", driven by economic, military, technological, and geopolitical power, and stressed the need for Europe to adapt to this reality.