Denmark has officially assumed the six-month rotating presidency of the EU Council, with a focus on security and competitiveness. The task will be challenging due to the uncertainty and volatility in the European Union. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasized that the EU can no longer take its freedom and prosperity for granted. Denmark is known for its pragmatic and efficient approach, which could help in navigating divisions between member states.
The presidency will have to deal with the return of Donald Trump to the White House, which has led to reactive posturing among Europeans. Denmark is a strong advocate for free and open markets, but Trump’s policies also pose an existential threat due to his stance on Greenland. Denmark will need to ensure unity among member states on trade issues.
Denmark has been a strong supporter of Ukraine, providing significant military aid. However, Slovakia has vetoed new sanctions on Russia, creating difficulties for the presidency. Denmark also faces challenges in enlargement, as Hungary continues to block negotiations with Ukraine. Denmark has switched sides in the debate on fiscal discipline, prioritizing defense spending in response to the Russian war on Ukraine.
The presidency also needs to balance economists’ focus on simplifying regulation with the green transition. Denmark believes that environmental laws and a competitive economy can coexist. However, the backlash against the Green Deal is intensifying. Denmark is also in line with the EU’s focus on migration control, advocating for stricter rules and the establishment of deportation centers in distant countries. Denmark’s model of migration control is being advertised as a gold standard within the EU.
Source: https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/07/01/denmark-takes-over-eu-presidency-in-stormy-times-heres-what-to-expect
