Danish Prime Minister Calls for Enhanced European Defense Capacities

Mette Frederiksen emphasizes the need for Europe to achieve defense self-reliance in response to perceived threats from Russia.

COPENHAGEN — In a significant address, Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen asserted that Europe must become entirely self-reliant in defense within three to five years to counter the ongoing threats posed by Russia.

Frederiksen made these remarks in an interview, underscoring a pressing need for the European Union (EU) to bolster its military capabilities in light of aggressive Russian actions.

Frederiksen identified the rearmament of Europe as the most urgent issue facing the bloc, citing a potential risk of Russian aggression that could escalate in the near future.

She remarked, “If you see what they are doing on sabotage, hybrid attacks, using migrants ...

trying to destabilize our countries with disinformation, fake news and so on, the willingness in Russia to have a fight against Europe is quite big.”

Her comments came amidst discussions between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding a ceasefire in Ukraine.

Although a formal agreement was not achieved, both leaders expressed a desire to continue their dialogue.

Frederiksen expressed skepticism about Putin's intentions, stating that Russia's actions have been contrary to humanitarian considerations and European values.

She emphasized the need for Russia to demonstrate a commitment to peaceful coexistence with Europe, remarking, “I’m not very optimistic about Russia because when I look at their behavior, it’s so much against humanity.”

In the wake of heightened tensions, Frederiksen addressed Trump’s prior comments regarding the potential annexation of Greenland, an autonomous territory under Danish sovereignty.

She reaffirmed Denmark's stance on territorial integrity, stating, “Greenland is a part of the territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, full stop.”

Frederiksen's remarks coincide with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s recent call for EU member states to collaborate on defense procurement, aiming for a unified approach by 2030. The EU is preparing to implement an ambitious €800 billion initiative to enhance its defense sector.

Denmark has consistently supported Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict and has voiced a preference for acquiring armaments from EU countries while maintaining collaborative ties with other allies, including Norway and the United Kingdom.

Frederiksen articulated the significant potential within Europe for defense production but emphasized that changes are necessary to overcome existing barriers, stating, “We are still having this peacetime mindset ...

I don’t think we have a couple of months to take decisions.”