Denmark Sets Up Special Monitoring System to Observe Trump After Arctic Row

In a move inspired by TV series guards, the Danish foreign affairs department has created a night watch team—not guarding against mythical foes, but to monitor the US president while Copenhagen sleeps.

The night monitoring begins at 5 p.m. in Denmark each day and ends with a report compiled at 7am, which is then distributed throughout government departments and concerned offices covering what was said and developments that occurred.

This position is understood to have been established following the bilateral row between Copenhagen and the US regarding the Arctic island this spring, when the US president suggested taking control of the strategic territory.

Observers point out that this measure is one of multiple examples of how Danish diplomacy and its civil service have had to adapt to the new reality of the second Trump administration.

A source close to the ministry stated, “It's accurate to say that the circumstances in Greenland and the time difference between Copenhagen and the United States was quite an important factor introducing this arrangement during the earlier months.”

Instead of all staff needing to promptly check their devices to catch up on news from the US, the foreign office said it had made a coordinated approach to stay updated on Trump actions.

An expert, a former chief analyst at the Danish defence intelligence agency, commented that this move showed, “as we have always known,” that the idea of the United States as Denmark's largest and most important ally was no longer valid. “Partnerships are founded on shared principles and a common threat perception,” he added. “Trump lacks both of those with Denmark and it can be said he doesn't share it with most Europeans.”

Cindy Huynh
Cindy Huynh

Lena is a seasoned casino strategist with a passion for teaching others how to master poker and roulette games.