Global leaders have gathered in Switzerland for this year's World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, with US President Donald Trump set to attend virtually.

Political and business leaders are among some 3,000 people from over 130 countries and regions attending the gathering, which opened on Monday.

Trump is set to make an online appearance at the forum on Thursday. His participation would give observers a chance to learn about the policies of his new administration, including on tariffs and responses to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Participants are scheduled to discuss a range of issues, including trade and climate change. It remains to be seen how they interpret the policies of Trump.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to use his speech on Tuesday to drum up continued support for Ukraine in the face of the escalating Russian offensive.

The forum will host more than 200 sessions through its final day on Friday, with topics ranging from risks for the global economy to artificial intelligence.