As Denmark begins its six-month presidency of the European Union, public support for the EU has reached a 20-year high. A major reason for this shift is growing distrust toward the United States—especially under the leadership of President Donald Trump.
According to a March survey by Danish daily Berlingske, 41% of Danes now see the US as a threat, while 92% believe Denmark should rely more on the EU than on the US for its security. Tensions between Washington and Copenhagen, especially over Greenland, have played a role in souring the relationship.
Trump’s renewed interest in buying Greenland and harsh criticism of Denmark’s Arctic defense efforts have not been well received. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has called Denmark a “strong ally” and rejected US claims of neglect.
Marie Bjerre, Denmark’s minister for European affairs, noted that Denmark now sees the world differently. She said that as the US becomes more inward-looking and aggressive toward allies, Denmark must strengthen ties with Europe. “The world order is changing,” she said, “and we need to respond accordingly.”
Historically skeptical of deeper EU integration, Denmark is now pushing for a stronger Europe. Prime Minister Frederiksen has even stepped away from the “Frugal Four”—a bloc of EU nations opposed to big common spending—saying rearming Europe is now essential.
EU trust among Danes has grown steadily, especially since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Trump’s return to power. As Denmark leads the EU, it faces the challenge of building European strength while still having to engage with a US administration that many in Copenhagen no longer fully trust.