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In his first major address to an international audience, newly elected President Donald Trump announced plans to soon meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss peace talks with Ukraine. Speaking via a remote video link, President Trump expressed hope that China would also assist in ending the war between Russia and Ukraine.
Much of his speech focused on trade, warning companies that moving production outside the U.S. would incur tariffs “worth trillions of dollars.” He criticised the European Union for excessive regulation and tariffs and urged NATO countries to increase their defense spending.
Trump credited his influence for the ceasefire in Gaza, which was negotiated during the final days of the Biden administration. He also called on Saudi Arabia and other OPEC nations to lower oil prices, claiming this would help end the war in Ukraine.
Regarding future U.S.-China relations, Trump confirmed a recent call with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, emphasising a need for a fair relationship. He noted that China could play a crucial role in both ending the war between Russia and Ukraine and facilitating nuclear disarmament talks with Xi and Putin.
President Trump’s full speech at Davos can be found here:
