Denmark Sets Up Nighttime Watch System to Observe President Trump Following Greenland Row

Taking action inspired by fictional watches, Denmark's foreign ministry has initiated a night watch unit—far from to fend off mythical foes, but to track Donald Trump as Copenhagen is asleep.

The night watch starts at 5pm in Denmark each day and ends with a summary compiled at 7 a.m., which is then distributed throughout the Danish government and relevant offices detailing what was said and developments taking place.

The role is believed to have been introduced following the diplomatic row involving Denmark and the US regarding Greenland this spring, when the US president threatened acquiring control of the strategic territory.

Observers point out that this measure is one of several examples of how Danish diplomacy and its civil service have had to adjust to the changed landscape of the second Trump administration.

An insider familiar with the ministry remarked, “It is fair to say that the situation in Greenland and the time zone gap separating Copenhagen and the United States was quite an important reason prompting this system in the earlier months.”

Rather than all staff having to immediately check their devices to catch up on updates from the United States, the foreign office explained it had made a coordinated approach to remain informed on Trump actions.

Jacob Kaarsbo, a former chief analyst at the Danish defence intelligence agency, commented that this move demonstrated, “as we have always known,” that the idea of the US as Denmark's largest and most important partner was dead. “Partnerships are built on shared principles and a common threat perception,” Kaarsbo added. “The president shares neither of those with Denmark and I would argue he lacks it with most Europeans.”

Michelle Beard
Michelle Beard

A seasoned automotive journalist with a passion for classic cars and modern innovations, sharing insights and stories from the road.