Denmark’s security apparatus has published a wide-ranging warning about foreign interference ahead of the country’s March 24 general election, describing the risk as 'highly likely' in a formal assessment released by the Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET).
The report highlights a multi-front challenge. It identifies Russia as the foremost threat in light of Denmark’s military support for Ukraine, and it takes the unusual step of also naming the United States and China as potential sources of interference. The assessment links these concerns to the ongoing political fallout from the so-called 'Greenland Crisis,' which has come to dominate domestic discussion.
According to PET, the United States’ intensified attention on Greenland has generated 'new international lines of conflict' that adversaries are exploiting to spread misinformation. The intelligence services are explicitly preparing for a mix of 'hybrid' tactics that could include cyberattacks and targeted disinformation campaigns intended to influence individual candidates or to sow division in public opinion.
The PET warning follows a December assessment from the Defense Intelligence Service (DDIS), which for the first time categorized the United States as a potential security risk to Denmark. That earlier report set a precedent and underlined how rapidly established transatlantic norms appear to be under strain amid the Greenland-related dispute.
On the political front, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called a snap election earlier this week. Observers view the move as an effort to secure a fresh mandate after a jump in her approval ratings. Frederiksen has framed herself as a protector of national sovereignty as tensions with Washington over Greenland have become a central theme. Her messaging has resonated with voters, and the upcoming vote is being treated as a test of Danish sentiment toward its relationship with the United States.
While the United States remains Denmark’s primary security partner through NATO, PET’s assessment notes that unpredictable rhetoric from Washington has prompted Danish officials to maintain a close watch on U.S. actions - a measure local media have described as a 'night watch.'
For international investors, the election is taking on added significance as a gauge of stability in Europe. Analysts say that a win for Frederiksen’s center-left bloc would likely reinforce a policy of 'strategic autonomy' within the European Union and a firm rejection of any negotiations over Arctic territory.
Authorities are preparing contingency plans and monitoring digital and narrative spaces in anticipation of interference attempts. The intelligence services’ public assessment underscores an environment in which geopolitical disputes over Greenland and Denmark’s support for Ukraine have amplified the risk that foreign actors will seek to influence domestic politics.
Summary
Danish intelligence agencies warn that foreign interference is 'highly likely' ahead of the March 24 general election. The PET report names Russia as the main threat and additionally cites the United States and China as potential sources of influence. Authorities expect cyberattacks and disinformation aimed at candidates and public opinion amid the ongoing Greenland dispute and Denmark’s support for Ukraine.