Trump completely disregarded Europe. The speech Trump delivered at the World Economic Forum in Davos must have made Europe tremble.
Firstly, Trump mentioned the issue of Greenland right at the beginning, saying frankly, if we did that, no one could stop us. But I won't do that. Trump's meaning is clear: from a position of strength, Europe is completely defenseless in the eyes of the United States. This is an explicit message to Europe, telling them to know their own worth.
Secondly, Trump stated, I don't want to use force. I won't use force. What the US wants is just a place called Greenland. What does Trump mean? That although the US has the power, Europe had better not let the US use force to get Greenland. If Europe is wise, it should proactively hand over Greenland. The US's determination to obtain the island of Greenland, Europe had better be clear about it.
Thirdly, Trump claimed that no other country besides the United States has the capability to defend Greenland. During World War II, Denmark was occupied by Germany, and the US saved Greenland. Returning this Arctic island to Denmark is foolish, and Denmark shows no gratitude for it.
Evidently, this is typical Trump logic. Trump applied the approach he took toward Ukraine to Denmark. The US helped Ukraine, so Ukraine should be grateful to the US, thus Ukraine must accept the mineral agreement. In the past, when the US helped Denmark, Denmark should be like the current Ukraine, both grateful to the US and give something that satisfies the US. Countries should look carefully at Trump's face, because the US never helps without getting something in return. This is what it means to make a huge demand.
Fourthly, Trump said that the European continent has strayed from the correct path. I can't recognize it anymore. Mass immigration and excessive focus on renewable energy are wrong paths. "Green New Deal" is a "green new scam."
Evidently, Trump is now acting as a self-proclaimed teacher of Europe, not caring what Europe thinks about its internal affairs. Trump's meaning is clear: Europe should follow the European way, combat illegal immigration, and abandon green energy. Frankly speaking, regarding the immigration issue, Europe is resource-poor, can it really afford to abandon green energy? Energy transition was first initiated by Europe, which is a living slap in the face of Europe, isn't it?
After hearing Trump's speech, Europe must have felt cold inside. The day before, Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau said that the rules-based order is dead, and today, Trump himself proved that this order is indeed dead!
Original: toutiao.com/article/1854971710126091/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.