At Davos, a European Backlash to Trump

Every January, the Swiss town of Davos becomes the unofficial capital of global power. Political leaders, business executives, and policy thinkers gather at the World Economic Forum (WEF) to debate the future of the world economy, climate action, security, and geopolitics. This year, however, one topic overshadowed many others: the growing European backlash to Donald Trump and the possibility of his return to power in the United States.

Although Trump was not physically present at Davos, his influence was impossible to ignore. From panel discussions to private meetings behind closed doors, European officials openly voiced concerns about what a second Trump presidency could mean for transatlantic relations, global trade, NATO, and support for Ukraine. For many in Europe, Davos became less about optimism and more about preparing for disruption.

Trump’s Shadow Over Davos

Donald Trump’s first term as U.S. president left deep scars on Europe’s political leadership. His “America First” doctrine challenged long-standing alliances, questioned NATO commitments, and introduced aggressive trade policies that unsettled European economies. At Davos, those memories resurfaced sharply.

European leaders expressed anxiety that Trump’s potential return could bring renewed tariffs, weakened cooperation on climate change, and a transactional approach to diplomacy. Several officials warned that Europe cannot assume the United States will remain a predictable partner if Trump wins the next election.

The concern is not merely ideological. For Europe, stability in U.S. foreign policy is essential to economic planning, defense coordination, and global crisis management. Trump’s unpredictability, many argue, makes long-term cooperation difficult.

Trade Tensions and Economic Fears

One of the strongest points of backlash at Davos focused on trade. Trump has repeatedly threatened tariffs on European goods, particularly targeting automobiles, steel, and green technologies. European business leaders at the forum warned that renewed trade wars could slow economic recovery already strained by inflation, energy transitions, and geopolitical conflicts.

Executives stressed that protectionism on either side of the Atlantic would harm consumers and disrupt global supply chains. Many fear that Trump’s economic nationalism could undermine the rules-based trade system that Europe heavily relies on.

At Davos, European policymakers emphasized the need to strengthen internal markets and diversify trade partners, signaling that Europe is preparing for a less cooperative Washington.

NATO and Security Concerns

Security issues dominated many conversations at Davos, especially in the context of Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump’s past skepticism toward NATO and his comments suggesting that the U.S. might not defend allies who fail to meet defense spending targets alarm European leaders.

Several European officials warned that any weakening of NATO unity would embolden adversaries and destabilize Eastern Europe. While Europe has increased defense spending since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, many countries still depend heavily on U.S. military support.

At Davos, the message was clear: Europe must prepare for greater strategic autonomy if American commitment becomes uncertain. Trump’s rhetoric has accelerated discussions about building a stronger, more independent European defense framework.

Climate Policy at Risk

Climate change is another area where Trump’s influence loomed large at Davos. European leaders see climate action as both a moral responsibility and an economic opportunity. Trump’s previous withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement remains a symbol of U.S. disengagement in this area.

At the forum, European officials worried that a Trump comeback could slow global climate efforts just as momentum is building for green investment and renewable energy transitions. Business leaders also expressed concern that policy reversals in the U.S. could disrupt green supply chains and climate-focused financial strategies.

Europe, by contrast, is doubling down on climate commitments, positioning itself as a global leader even if the U.S. steps back again.

Europe’s Strategic Wake-Up Call

Perhaps the most important takeaway from Davos is that Europe is no longer waiting passively. The backlash to Trump reflects a broader realization that the continent must take greater responsibility for its own future.

Discussions at the forum highlighted plans to boost defense cooperation, invest in critical technologies, and strengthen economic resilience. While Europe still values its alliance with the United States, leaders are increasingly focused on reducing dependence on any single partner.

Trump’s possible return has acted as a catalyst, pushing Europe to confront uncomfortable questions about sovereignty, unity, and global influence.

What Comes Next?

Davos revealed not just fear, but determination. European leaders are preparing for multiple scenarios, including a renewed Trump presidency. The backlash is less about personal dislike and more about structural concerns over predictability, cooperation, and shared values.

If Trump returns to power, Europe may respond with greater unity and assertiveness. If he does not, the lessons learned at Davos will still shape European policy for years to come.

In the end, Davos served as a reminder that global politics is entering a more fragmented era. Europe’s reaction to Trump underscores a shifting balance of power—one where old assumptions no longer hold, and strategic independence is no longer optional.