Story perspectives

Trump Mocks Macron at Davos Amid Trade Tensions

1/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

At Davos, U.S. President Donald Trump mocked French President Emmanuel Macron for wearing sunglasses during his speech.
Macron wore sunglasses due to a burst blood vessel.
Macron called Trump's threats of tariffs over Greenland "fundamentally unacceptable."
Macron said France would not yield to "bullies."
Trump reiterated his desire to acquire Greenland, calling it essential for U.S. security, while European leaders prepared to counter his trade policies and warned of repercussions.

History

Historical Context

The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930 raised U.S. tariffs on imports, provoking retaliatory measures from countries like France and contributing to a 66% decline in global trade. This protectionist policy, enacted during the Great Depression, exacerbated economic isolationism. Today, President Trump's tariff threats echo this history, as European leaders, including Macron, prepare to respond, raising concerns about a potential resurgence of trade wars.

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Story summary

At Davos, U.S. President Donald Trump mocked French President Emmanuel Macron for wearing sunglasses during his speech.
Macron wore sunglasses due to a burst blood vessel.
Macron called Trump's threats of tariffs over Greenland "fundamentally unacceptable."
Macron said France would not yield to "bullies."
Trump reiterated his desire to acquire Greenland, calling it essential for U.S. security, while European leaders prepared to counter his trade policies and warned of repercussions.

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