Danish PM Warns Europe Faces 'Greatest Threat Since WW2' from Russia

Frederiksen's Urgent Warning at Copenhagen Summit

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen delivered a grave warning to European leaders, stating that the continent is confronting 'the greatest threat since the end of the Second World War.' Speaking at an informal meeting of EU Heads of State and Government and the European Political Community in Copenhagen around October 1st-2nd, 2025, Frederiksen directly accused Russia of actively seeking to weaken and divide European societies through various means.

Russia's Hybrid Warfare Tactics Detailed

Frederiksen elaborated on the nature of the threat, highlighting Russia's intensified use of 'hybrid tactics' that extend beyond conventional warfare. These tactics, she explained, are designed to create uncertainty and erode trust within European nations. The Danish Prime Minister cited several examples of such activities:

• The deployment of military drones.
• The deliberate pushing of migrants across borders.
• Targeting of critical infrastructure.
• Spreading misinformation.
• Attempts to interfere in democratic elections.

She emphasized that 'the war was never just about Ukraine. It is about Europe all our nations.'

Call for European Unity and Enhanced Security

In response to this perceived existential threat, Frederiksen called for immediate and decisive action from Europe and NATO. She stressed the urgent need to strengthen both military and societal resilience against 'Russian aggression and hybrid threats.' Key components of her call to action included:

• A significant push for rearmament across Europe.
• Continued and robust support for Ukraine, which she described as 'the first line of defense for the entire European Union and our continent.'
• Strengthening economic resilience by future-proofing Europe through investments in jobs, health, and technology.

Frederiksen asserted that 'Russia will not stop until they are forced to do so,' underscoring the necessity for a strong, unified European front.

Assessment of Russia's War Aims and Future Outlook

Despite the ongoing challenges, Frederiksen also offered an assessment of Russia's strategic failures. She noted that after nearly four years of full-scale war, President Putin has not succeeded in his initial objectives, such as capturing Kyiv, overthrowing the Ukrainian government, or tearing Europe apart. She concluded that 'the war is a Russian failure,' largely due to the bravery of the Ukrainian people and the steadfast support from international allies. The Prime Minister reiterated that Europe must move with greater urgency and learn from Ukraine's sense of urgency in building its defense industry.