Denmark has established a special monitoring unit to track US President Donald Trump’s statements, particularly those related to Greenland, an autonomous territory within the kingdom. The move comes after Trump signaled plans to take over Greenland, which Denmark views as a direct threat to its sovereignty.
The Danish Foreign Ministry has introduced a “night watch” guard who monitors Trump’s statements each night, despite the six-hour time difference between Washington and Copenhagen. The guard’s shift begins at 5pm local time and ends at 7am the next morning, during which a report on Trump’s statements must be produced and circulated across the Danish government.
The guard is tasked with tracking Trump’s rhetoric on Denmark and Greenland specifically. Sources indicate that the role was created to ease pressure on officials, who no longer need to “reach immediately for their phones” when Trump makes announcements. The night watch keeps the government updated on Trump’s statements, allowing them to respond promptly.
This move is one of several adjustments the Danish authorities have made during Trump’s second term. The Danish Embassy in Washington has doubled its staffing for public diplomacy, and the Greenlandic Representation in the same building has been reinforced. These changes reflect the heightened tensions between Denmark and the US over Greenland.
Former chief analyst at the Danish Defense Intelligence Service, Jacob Kaarsbo, notes that the situation highlights the erosion of trust between the two nations. “Alliances are built on common values and a common threat perception,” Kaarsbo stated. “Trump shares neither of those with us.” The establishment of the night watch guard underscores the significance of Trump’s statements and the need for Denmark to be vigilant in its response.
The dispute over Greenland dates back to 2019, when Trump first floated the idea of buying the island. The proposal was quickly rejected by Denmark and Greenland’s government. Since returning to office, Trump has revived the idea, citing national security concerns and refusing to rule out military force to secure American control. Denmark has responded by strengthening its Arctic defense and expanding military and civil monitoring in Greenland. The situation remains a point of contention between the two nations, with Denmark taking steps to protect its sovereignty and interests.
