Danish Intelligence Issues Stark Warning on Foreign Election Interference
Denmark's intelligence services have issued a sobering warning that foreign powers may attempt to interfere in the country's upcoming March 24 general election. In a statement released Friday night, the Danish Security and Intelligence Service identified Russia as the primary threat while also flagging the United States and China as potential sources of influence operations.
Russia Identified as Primary Threat
The intelligence assessment states it is "highly likely" that Denmark has become a prioritized target for Russian influence activities. This heightened threat level stems directly from Denmark's steadfast support for Ukraine in the ongoing conflict. The report notes that Russia is currently waging a hybrid war against Western nations, with election interference representing a key component of this broader strategy.
Greenland Tensions Create New Vulnerabilities
The intelligence service highlighted how rising tensions over Greenland have created new vulnerabilities that foreign states might exploit. The semi-autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark has become a flashpoint following former U.S. President Donald Trump's renewed claims over the Arctic island earlier this year.
"The U.S. focus on the Kingdom has furthermore created new international lines of conflict that foreign states such as Russia and China can exploit for influence purposes," the agency stated in its assessment.
The report specifically noted that misinformation surrounding the Greenland situation could cloud the electoral process and potentially sway voter sentiment.
U.S. Election Interference Concerns
In a significant development, the intelligence assessment warned that U.S. election interference "could emanate from a wide range of actors, including those without formal ties to the U.S. administration." This warning follows a December assessment from the Danish Defense Intelligence Service that for the first time described the United States as a potential security risk.
Political Context and Timing
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called the early election for March 24 to capitalize on a surge in support stemming from her government's standoff with Donald Trump over Greenland. The Danish ballot will test voter sentiment on dealing with the former U.S. president at a time when Europe's relations with the United States have deteriorated to their worst point in decades.
The rupture in relations after Trump revived claims over the Arctic territory has bolstered Frederiksen's domestic standing, reinforcing her image as a disciplined and steady leader during periods of national strain.
Potential Influence Campaign Tactics
Authorities warned that foreign influence campaigns may employ various tactics aimed at:
- Deepening existing social divisions within Danish society
- Swaying political discourse on key issues
- Targeting specific candidates and political parties
These operations could include disinformation campaigns, limited cyberattacks, and threats of more serious cyber operations designed to undermine confidence in the electoral process.
Broader Geopolitical Context
The intelligence assessment comes against a backdrop of intensifying geopolitical tensions globally. Beyond Russia's hybrid warfare against Western nations, the report noted that China is increasingly using its growing economic and military power to exert pressure internationally.
The Danish election occurs at a critical juncture for European security and transatlantic relations, making it a potentially attractive target for multiple foreign actors seeking to advance their strategic interests through influence operations.
