King Frederik X’s three day visit to France has marked a significant step in strengthening Denmark’s alliances, securing military support, and reinforcing European unity in the face of global challenges, and as US President Donald Trump has said he wants to acquire Greenland, a Danish territory.
Issued on: 03/04/2025 - 06:51
2 min
King Frederik X’s first state visit to France has underscored Denmark’s commitment to European solidarity, strengthening both military and diplomatic ties with its EU allies.
The highlight of the three-day visit, which began on Monday, was France’s pledge to deliver up to 1,000 Mistral surface-to-air missiles to Denmark, reinforcing European defence cooperation amid growing global insecurity.
In a grand display of unity, King Frederik X and French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed their commitment to a resilient and robust Europe.
Speaking at a Franco-Danish economic forum, the Danish monarch emphasised the importance of collaboration, stating: “Today we mark ... a shared commitment to create a stronger and more resilient Europe for the future".
Macron echoed the King's sentiments, assuring Denmark that it could always count on France. “When the winds are blowing hard in Denmark, France is there. When times are tough, we stand side by side".
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Trump eyes Greenland
The agreement between Denmark and France comes at a crucial time, as Copenhagen seeks greater European backing to counter US President Donald Trump’s expressed interest in acquiring Greenland.
The vast, resource-rich Arctic territory has long been under Danish sovereignty, but Trump’s recent remarks about purchasing Greenland have reignited concerns about American influence in the region.
Denmark is keen to ensure Greenland remains firmly under its jurisdiction and has sought European allies in the effort to push back against any external pressures.
France warns Trump over military threats to take control of Greenland
Air defence agreement
The newly signed framework agreement with France includes the supply of Mistral 3 missiles, boosting Denmark’s air defence capabilities.
The Mistral 3, a state-of-the-art short-range surface-to-air missile, is designed to counter a variety of aerial threats, including fighter jets, helicopters, drones, and cruise missiles.
The move aligns with Denmark’s broader efforts to strengthen its military readiness, particularly in light of its support for Ukraine.
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Copenhagen has already provided Kyiv with 19 French-made Caesar cannons and has also bolstered its own defence with the purchase of 130 Finnish Patria armoured personnel carriers.
Denmark’s growing partnership with France signals a strategic shift for the Scandinavian country, reinforcing European defence cooperation at a time when the continent faces new geopolitical challenges.
Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen highlighted the importance of alliances, stating, “Close cooperation with France is absolutely necessary in times of war in Europe and in a constantly changing security situation.”
He also stressed the need for a strong European defence industry to support ongoing rearmament efforts.
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US attacks DEI programmes
Beyond security concerns, Denmark is also urging a united European front against US policies that threaten corporate diversity initiatives.
Several French and Danish companies recently received letters from US embassies asking them to confirm that they do not engage in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes – an issue that has become a political flashpoint under Trump’s leadership.
Denmark has called for a collective European response, denouncing the letters as a “new attempt at an American trade barrier”.
French and Belgian officials have echoed similar concerns, reaffirming their commitment to inclusive business practices, despite the Trump administration's threats.