PBS News Hour - Full Show January 21, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode
Jan 22, 2026
Rebecca Heinrichs, a foreign policy expert at the Hudson Institute, shares insights on President Trump's shifting stance regarding tariffs and Greenland, illuminating the impact on U.S. alliances. Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, delves into the implications of Trump's Davos speech, discussing its potential effects on European relations and democratic values. The conversation also touches on the Supreme Court's critical case concerning the Federal Reserve's independence and the local unrest in St. Paul linked to federal immigration raids.
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Greenland Episode Strained Alliances
- President Trump backed off threats to use force on Greenland and softened tariff threats after pushback from allies and markets.
- That retreat shows transactional bargaining can damage long-term alliance trust and force strategic recalibration.
Allies See A 'Permanent' Shift
- Anne Applebaum says allies now see a permanent change in U.S. leadership and must act more independently.
- Europe is already assuming greater financial and military responsibility, especially for Ukraine.
Pause And Offer Collaborative Options
- When U.S. presidents act unpredictably, allies should 'take a beat' and offer collaborative options.
- Rebeccah Heinrichs advises providing calm, prudent paths to restore cooperation after surprises.