Copenhagen: Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Thursday announced a sudden parliamentary election in parliament, following increased pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Greenland. The elections will now be held on March 24, 2026, seven months earlier than the original schedule of October 2026.
In a special statement to parliament, Frederiksen said she had recommended to King Frederik to hold the elections, and the date has now been finalized. She described this as a decisive moment for Denmark and Europe, with key issues being security, sovereignty, and relations with the United States.
Frederiksen stated, “Spring will arrive soon, and the Danish people will be voting shortly. In the next four years, Denmark and Europe must strengthen themselves, redefine relations with the United States, enhance military capability for continental peace, and maintain European unity.”
Analysts view this move as a strategy to capitalize on the political advantage from the so-called “Greenland Bounce” following the recent dispute. Trump recently repeated his 2019 demand to purchase or control Greenland, applying pressure that Frederiksen countered with a firm stance. This has boosted her personal popularity and support for the Social Democrats.
Recent opinion polls show increased ratings for Frederiksen personally, and for her party, especially after setbacks in local elections. Denmark has strengthened Arctic security with European partners, including Germany and France, and increased the deployment of European forces in Greenland.
Frederiksen has been in power since 2019 and has led a rare cross-block coalition since 2022, including the Social Democrats, Moderates, and Liberals. She has taken a tough stance on immigration policy and advocated strong border controls, distinguishing herself from other European leaders.
It is notable that Greenland, a vast Arctic island, is part of the Danish realm but has domestic autonomy. Trump’s repeated demand to purchase or control the island has put political pressure on Denmark. European security cooperation and military deployment in Greenland have strengthened Frederiksen’s international image and established her government as a guardian of sovereignty and European unity.