Trump’s Greenland Threats Spark Global Backlash; World Leaders Unite Over Tariff Warnings – 1/21/2026, 4:24:30 PM

President Trump’s trip to the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, dominates headlines, marked by Air Force One’s mid-flight turnaround due to a minor electrical issue, forcing a switch to a backup plane. His preparations to address world leaders are overshadowed by his aggressive push to acquire Greenland from Denmark, sparking global backlash including threats of tariffs, condemnations from NATO allies and European leaders, and refusals to rule out military action[1][2][3][4].

Tensions with allies escalate over Greenland and tariffs. Trump has threatened tariffs on countries if Greenland isn’t sold by February 1st, uniting Europe and NATO in defense of its sovereignty; leaders like France’s Macron urge using “tools” against rule-breakers, while Canada’s PM warns smaller nations to unite as the “old world order” fades[1][2][3]. World leaders, including Azerbaijan’s president, describe a shift to “rule of strength,” with Belgian FM accusing Trump of trying to replace the UN[3].

Domestic U.S. developments include DOJ subpoenas in Minnesota. The Department of Justice served subpoenas to several Democratic lawmakers amid rising tensions[1].

Severe winter weather grips parts of the U.S. Storms from Texas to the Northeast bring wind chills to 50 below zero, causing a Red Cross blood supply shortage[2].

Other notable stories: Closing arguments begin in the trial of former Uvalde school police officer Adrian Gonzales[2]; Russia’s Kamchatka recovers from a “snow apocalypse”[3]; climate impacts on Antarctic penguins reported[3]. Trump’s Davos speech is set amid market jitters from his Greenland and tariff rhetoric[4].