Global Leaders Gather in Davos Amid Growing Divides and Geo-Strategic Competition

UkraineVolodymyr ZelenskyyChinaNATOWorld Economic ForumUrsula von der LeyenprotectionismGerman Chancellor Olaf Scholz

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Ursula von der Leyen kicks off the World Economic Forum in Davos, urging cooperation to avoid a 'global race to the bottom.' Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang calls for multilateralism and an end to protectionism. European Commission President von der Leyen emphasizes continued support for Ukraine amid uncertainty over US engagement. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz aims to keep the US as Germany's 'closest ally outside Europe.' Volodymyr Zelenskyy questions the new US administration's commitment to NATO.

Ukraine
Volodymyr Zelenskyy
China
NATO
World Economic Forum
Ursula von der Leyen
protectionism
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz

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