In a move reminiscent of the fictional Night's Watch from Game of Thrones, the Danish government has established its own real-life "night watch" operation to monitor former US President Donald Trump's activities and statements.
The Greenland Dispute That Sparked Surveillance
The unusual monitoring initiative was introduced following the diplomatic row between Copenhagen and Washington over Greenland this spring. The situation escalated when Trump publicly threatened to take control of the Arctic island, creating significant tension between the two nations.
According to reports from Politiken newspaper, the night watch team begins its work at 5pm each day and continues through the night when Danish officials would normally be asleep. By 7am the following morning, the team produces a comprehensive report detailing Trump's pronouncements and movements, which is then distributed throughout the Danish government and relevant departments.
Adapting to New Political Realities
A source close to the Danish foreign office confirmed to the Guardian that "the situation in Greenland and the time difference between Denmark and the United States was quite an important factor introducing this arrangement during the spring."
The foreign office explained that rather than having officials constantly checking their phones for updates from the US, they've made a "collective effort" to systematically track Trump's activities. This represents one of several adaptations Danish diplomacy has made to accommodate the unique challenges posed by the second Trump administration.
Broader Implications for International Relations
Jacob Kaarsbo, a former chief analyst at the Danish defence intelligence agency, interpreted the development as significant evidence that the traditional view of the US as Denmark's most important ally has fundamentally changed.
"Alliances are built on common values and a common threat perception," Kaarsbo stated. "Trump shares neither of those with us and I would argue he doesn't share it with most Europeans."
The establishment of this monitoring system underscores how European nations are developing new strategies to manage relationships with the United States amid shifting political landscapes and unpredictable leadership styles.
