Davos 2026: Trump sparks laughter with 'so many friends… few enemies' joke

Trump opens Davos speech with joke

The World Economic Forum audience in Davos burst into laughter as US President Donald Trump opened his first address at the gathering, setting a light-hearted tone before turning to some of the most contentious issues in global politics.

“It’s great to be back in beautiful Davos, Switzerland, and to address so many respected business leaders, so many friends… few enemies,” Trump said, prompting audible laughter inside the Congress Hall. The remark appeared to amuse attendees given Trump’s recent run-ins with several countries over trade and foreign policy.

The crowd continued to respond warmly to Trump’s one-liners throughout the speech. “People are doing very well,” he said at one point, drawing laughs as he added, “They’re very happy with me.” Similar chuckles were heard in an overflow hall where delegates followed the address on screens.

Behind the humour, however, Trump used the hour-long speech to address rising tensions over Greenland, ruling out the use of military force for the first time while demanding swift talks with Denmark. “We probably won’t get anything unless I decide to use excessive strength and force where we would be, frankly, unstoppable — but I won’t do that,” he said. “I don’t have to use force. I don’t want to use force. I won’t use force. All the United States is asking for is a place called Greenland.”

Trump said he was “seeking immediate negotiations” to acquire the island, repeatedly arguing that only the US could guarantee its security amid threats from Russia and China. He also warned Denmark that Washington would “remember” its response.

The president criticised Europe’s broader direction on security, trade and the economy, saying it was “not heading in the right direction”, while renewing attacks on leaders including French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

Trump’s arrival in Davos came amid protests and diplomatic pushback from Europe and Canada over his Greenland ambitions. Still, markets reacted positively, with Wall Street opening higher after his remarks.

Despite the geopolitical tensions, it was Trump’s opening quips — delivered with trademark bravado — that ensured laughter echoed through Davos before the serious debates began.