Sixty Percent of Danes Now View US as ‘Enemy’

A recent survey has revealed a striking shift in Danish public opinion, with six out of ten citizens now regarding the United States as an “enemy.” The survey, conducted by Denmark’s public broadcaster DR and reported by AFP on Tuesday, highlights growing unease among Danes over Washington’s recent foreign policy proposals.

The source of tension stems primarily from former US President Donald Trump’s controversial interest in acquiring Greenland. While Danes have long considered Greenland part of their kingdom, Copenhagen officially recognises the vast Arctic island as a self-governing and sovereign territory. Despite the cold climate, the historical relationship between mainland Denmark and Greenland has generally been warm and cooperative.

Trump’s proposal, however, provoked widespread disapproval among Danes, pushing public sentiment toward hostility. Traditionally, as NATO allies, Denmark and the United States have been regarded as close partners. Copenhagen still considers Washington one of its “closest allies,” but recent events have placed that alliance under strain.

The DR survey asked participants whether they viewed the United States as a friend or an enemy in light of recent developments. The results were striking: only 17 per cent of respondents described the US as a “friend,” while 60 per cent labelled it an “enemy.” The remaining 23 per cent expressed neutrality or indecision.

Political analysts suggest that the shift reflects a broader discontent with unpredictable US foreign policy and demonstrates how international actions can rapidly influence domestic opinion in allied nations. The Greenland episode, in particular, has placed Danish authorities in an awkward diplomatic position, balancing national sovereignty with long-standing alliance obligations.

Experts also note that while the current survey shows rising tension, the historical and institutional ties between Denmark and the US are unlikely to vanish entirely. Nevertheless, the data serve as a warning that public opinion in allied countries can quickly sour when perceived as being disregarded or disrespected on matters of sovereignty.

In Copenhagen, government officials have been forced to reaffirm Greenland’s self-governing status while navigating the delicate balance of maintaining strong transatlantic relations. This survey underscores that, even among long-term allies, shifts in perception can emerge suddenly and with potentially far-reaching diplomatic implications.