The Danish government Sets Up Special Watch Operation to Track President Trump Following Arctic Dispute
Taking action reminiscent of TV series guards, the Danish foreign affairs department has initiated a night watch unit—far from guarding against mythical foes, but to track Donald Trump as Denmark sleeps.
This night monitoring starts at 5pm in Denmark daily and ends with a summary compiled at 7 a.m., which is then distributed across the Danish government and concerned offices detailing statements made and developments that occurred.
The role is believed to have been introduced in the wake of the diplomatic dispute between Denmark and Washington regarding Greenland this spring, when the American leader threatened acquiring control of the resource-rich territory.
Observers point out that this measure is among multiple examples of how Denmark's foreign policy and its government administration have had to adjust to the new reality of the second Trump administration.
A source familiar with the foreign office stated, “It is fair to say that the circumstances in the region and the time difference separating Denmark and the United States was quite an important factor prompting this arrangement in the spring.”
Rather than all staff having to immediately reach for their devices to stay informed on news from the United States, the ministry said it had undertaken a coordinated approach to remain informed on Trump activities.
Jacob Kaarsbo, a former senior analyst at the Danish defence intelligence agency, stated that this move demonstrated, “as we have always known,” that the notion of the United States as Denmark's primary partner was no longer valid. “Partnerships are founded on shared principles and a common threat perception,” Kaarsbo added. “The president lacks both of those with Denmark and I would argue he lacks it with most Europeans.”