Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is embarking on a diplomatic mission to Berlin, Paris, and Brussels to foster European unity in response to US President Donald Trump's controversial remarks about Greenland. Trump has expressed an interest in acquiring the autonomous Danish territory, calling Denmark's refusal "absurd" and accusing the nation of "snubbing" the United States. This strained relationship has led to threats of tariffs and even military intervention, putting Denmark in a precarious position as the US remains its largest export market.
Frederiksen's diplomatic efforts come at a time of heightened tension, marked by a reportedly tense 45-minute phone call with Trump. As she seeks to rally Nordic solidarity, Frederiksen shared a photograph of a dinner with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb. These actions underscore her commitment to presenting a united front in the face of external pressures.
The European Union's security landscape is further complicated by a report from the EU Institute for Security Studies and the Robert Schuman Centre at the European University Institute in Florence. The report highlights global risks to the EU, including the threat of disruptive cyber-attacks on EU infrastructure and the potential fragmentation of EU politics by far-right forces over migration issues.
"This really exemplifies, to me, what has been our dominant strategic assumption for the past few years, which is we are in the most complex, volatile and dangerous security environment that we have seen as transatlantic community, as Europeans, in the few generations." – Benedetta Berti
NATO's Director of Policy Planning, Benedetta Berti, echoed these concerns by emphasizing the challenging security environment Europe faces today. Meanwhile, Denmark's intelligence services have issued warnings about an elevated threat level in the region.
In response to these challenges, Frederiksen plans to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris to discuss European unity and cooperation. The meeting aims to solidify Europe's stance on maintaining peace and progress through cooperation rather than confrontation.
"We need a stronger and a more resolute Europe standing increasingly in its own right, capable of defending and promoting Europe and the European interests. It is up to Europe to define the future of our continent. I think we have to take more responsibility for our own security." – Mette Frederiksen
The situation with Greenland has been described as a "kick in the gut" for Denmark, with Parliament Speaker Søren Gade expressing that Trump's comments felt like a personal attack. Despite this, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas attempted to downplay the situation, arguing that it is not a major issue.
"Europe, our continent, is based on the idea of that cooperation rather than confrontation will lead to peace, to progress, to prosperity, and let us honour that idea." – Mette Frederiksen
The report from the EU Institute for Security Studies also warns that variations in infrastructure resilience and cybercrime awareness across member states could challenge EU policy coherence. This underscores the importance of unified responses to security threats.
In addition to these diplomatic efforts, NATO has pledged support for Ukraine amid ongoing tensions with Russia. NATO's commitment underscores the alliance's dedication to Ukraine's sovereignty and freedom.
"We will support Ukraine in the distribution of its sovereignty and its freedom, as long as it takes. With our partners in Washington That is why we now agree that this war must end, but it must not be a dictated peace. Putin must be clear that he is sending his soldiers into a senseless battle. The inviolability of borders is a fundamental principle of international law. Russia broke this principle with its attack on Ukraine …" – Olaf Scholz
Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen highlighted Denmark's usual alignment with US defense perspectives but acknowledged the complexities of the current situation. Poulsen's remarks reflect Denmark's attempt to balance its strategic interests while navigating diplomatic tensions.
"The principle must apply to everyone. I made that clear again from this point a few days ago: Borders must not be moved by force." – Olaf Scholz
As Frederiksen continues her tour through Europe, her focus remains steadfast on ensuring that European nations work together to address both external threats and internal challenges. By strengthening alliances and promoting collaboration, Frederiksen aims to bolster Europe's resilience in an increasingly uncertain world.