Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has sharply criticized U.S. President Donald Trump for comments questioning the dedication of NATO allies in the long Afghanistan campaign, calling the remarks hurtful and unacceptable.
Frederiksen said Trump’s suggestion that allied forces stayed “a little off the front lines” during the conflict deeply wounded Danish veterans and their families. She pointed out that Denmark suffered significant losses relative to its population and that the suggestion undermined the sacrifices of troops who served under dangerous conditions.
The Danish leader expressed support for veterans in a social media post, highlighting that many feel the comments betrayed the legacy of those who fought and died alongside U.S. forces. She stressed the close military cooperation between Denmark and the United States over many years, saying allies have consistently answered calls to serve in crisis zones around the world.
Veterans’ groups in Denmark have responded with frustration, with some planning a silent protest march in Copenhagen later this month to voice their displeasure with Trump’s characterization of NATO efforts.
Broader pushback from Europe
Frederiksen’s comments come amid a wave of criticism from several NATO capitals. Leaders in the United Kingdom and Poland have also rejected Trump’s remarks, defending the role their soldiers played in Afghanistan. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the president’s statements as “insulting and appalling,” reflecting widespread anger among European allies.
Poland’s president similarly underscored that troops from allied countries made meaningful contributions to the mission and deserve respect for their sacrifices.
The U.S. administration has pushed back against these criticisms. A White House spokeswoman reiterated that America views its contributions to NATO as substantial, asserting that European partners also have responsibilities in defense spending and operations.
Trump’s remarks were made during an interview at the World Economic Forum, where he also questioned NATO’s overall reliability and suggested that the alliance may not come to the United States’ aid if needed. Those comments have added tension to transatlantic relations already strained by disagreements over military spending and strategic priorities.
