US EditionCalifornia governor tells Europe to stand up to Trump over tariff threats and ‘have a backbone’
California Gov. Gavin Newsom criticized European leaders for being conciliatory to Trump amid his Greenland tariff threats and urged them to stand united and firm, warning of potential consequences.
- On Jan. 20, 2026, Newsom told European leaders to 'develop a backbone' against Trump at Davos, urging them to stand tall and firm.
- Trump threatened tariffs on the UK and seven other European countries over Greenland, prompting the EU to consider a trade bazooka and boost Arctic security.
- Using blunt metaphors, Newsom likened Trump to a T‑Rex and warned Europe it could be devoured if passive; he called leaders' conduct pathetic and joked about needing knee pads.
- While von der Leyen signalled a united response, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned a diplomatic spiral would embolden adversaries, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Monday he would not retaliate with tariffs.
- With Mr Trump due to speak on Wednesday, Gavin Newsom warned Europe is paying the price for earlier inaction and said the dispute could reshape NATO ties and cooperation.
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In a speech delivered on Tuesday in Davos, the Democrat spoke of Greenland and urged the European Union to "react with great vigour" against the American President.
Gavin Newsom's Press Office roasts Trump for 'plan to distract' social media post
Gavin Newsom's Press Office has mocked Donald Trump with a late night social media post detailing the president's "plan to distract". An edited image of Trump meeting with fellow world leaders was circulated by the Governor of California's Press Office on X, and has since gone viral. Nearly 2,000 users liked the post, which featured Trump sat in the Oval Office next to an image of the US, Canada, and Venezuela all painted in stars and stripes. T…
California's Governor Gavin Newsom expects Europe's heads of state. At the meeting in Davos, he accuses them of a lack of backbone in dealing with Donald Trump and calls for a clear stance rather than abjection.
Democrat Gavin Newsom told British broadcaster Sky News that it was "a pity" to overwhelm Trump with honors. It was time to show his attitude.
Interview with Democratic Newsom, governor of California, who says: "Using diplomacy with Donald? That's a T-Rex"
In their words: Trump Greenland threats trigger warnings, profanities at forum
Leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos voiced strong concerns over global trade and President Trump's actions. French President Emmanuel Macron warned of a "new colonial approach." California Governor Gavin Newsom urged leaders to "stand tall and firm." Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney advocated for middle powers to cooperate.
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