WASHINGTON, D.C. January 21, 2026 – President Donald Trump departed for the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on Tuesday, expressing optimism about the trip and highlighting what he described as unprecedented economic achievements for the United States. In remarks captured before boarding Air Force One, Trump touted low energy prices and massive inflows of capital, though his journey was briefly delayed by a technical issue with the aircraft.
Speaking to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House, Trump stated, “So I’m going to Davos. I believe it’ll be very successful, the trip. The country’s never done better. We have $18 trillion-plus coming in. We’ve never had anything like it, and no other country has had anything like it.” He added that “prices are way down—gasoline now $1.99 in a lot of places—and frankly, nobody’s seen anything like this.” Trump concluded by noting the unpredictability of the forum but assured Americans they would be “well represented.”
The president’s comments come as the U.S. economy continues to show resilience, with recent reports indicating steady growth. However, actual national average gas prices stand at approximately $2.82 per gallon as of January 20, according to AAA data, which is lower than last year’s $3.08 but higher than the figure cited by Trump. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) similarly reports weekly averages around $2.78-$2.80 for early January.
Trump’s trip marks his first in-person appearance at the Davos forum since 2020, and he is leading the largest U.S. delegation in history, including key officials like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The visit is overshadowed by recent threats to acquire Greenland, which have prompted an extraordinary meeting among European leaders and raised concerns about U.S. relations with NATO allies. Trump has also signaled plans to expand his proposed “Board of Peace” for Gaza recovery, potentially positioning it as a rival to the United Nations Security Council.
En route to Davos, Air Force One encountered a minor electrical issue shortly after takeoff from Joint Base Andrews, forcing it to return. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the president would continue on a backup aircraft, ensuring his arrival in time for a scheduled special address on Wednesday. The forum’s agenda includes discussions on global growth, inequality, and geopolitical stability, with Trump’s speech expected to focus on American dominance and trade policies.
Critics, including some Democratic figures and international observers, have questioned the president’s economic claims and foreign policy approach. Progressive think tanks argue that while gas prices are low, broader affordability issues persist for American families. Meanwhile, supporters praise Trump’s aggressive stance on issues like tariffs and defense spending, viewing Davos as an opportunity to assert U.S. interests on the world stage.
As Trump arrives in Davos surrounded by global elites and billionaires, his agenda—including potential announcements on housing affordability and international deals—will be closely watched for their impact on both domestic and global markets. The president’s virtual address last year already stirred controversy, and this in-person visit promises to be no less eventful.
Life News Agency will continue to monitor developments from the World Economic Forum.
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