‘Americans are saying a lot these weeks': Denmark stresses European strength amid US remarks on defense

It was her cautious response to recent remarks by US Vice President JD Vance.

“The Americans are saying a lot these weeks. I would like to encourage the Europeans to make ourselves strong,” Frederiksen told Danish media, avoiding a direct analysis of Vance’s speech.

Frederiksen reiterated her stance that Russia remains the biggest threat to European peace. While she acknowledged some agreement with Vance, she stressed the importance of Europe taking greater responsibility for its security.

“Europe must be able to do more itself, and that is actually one of the points where I agree with the Americans,” she stated.

The Danish leader urged European nations to focus on fortifying their defenses. “Europeans must use our energy on what is most important – namely making ourselves strong now,” she said.

Frederiksen highlighted Denmark’s commitment to strengthening national defense, as well as its role within European and transatlantic alliances, to prevent further escalation of the war in Ukraine.

“We are in a very uncertain time, and we do not know what will happen in the coming months or years. Therefore, the most important thing right now is to strengthen our own defense so that we can stand our ground against an aggressive Russia,” she said.