Copenhagen, Denmark — For the first time, Denmark has flagged the United States as a potential security concern, according to an annual report released by the Danish Defense Intelligence Service (DDIS). The assessment highlights growing unease in Europe over the US’s shifting strategic priorities and its willingness to leverage economic and military power—even against traditional allies.

US Policies Viewed as Potential Threat

The DDIS report warns that the United States “uses economic power, including threats of high tariffs, to enforce its will” and does not rule out military force, even in interactions with NATO partners. The agency situates this observation within a broader trend of great powers prioritizing their own interests and increasingly using force to achieve strategic objectives.

Thomas Ahrenkiel, director of DDIS, emphasized that while the US has long been a cornerstone of European security, recent developments raise questions about its reliability as a guarantor of the region.

Russia and China Remain Key Strategic Concerns

While Denmark’s assessment of the US attracted significant attention, the report continues to underscore traditional security concerns from Russia and China. Analysts cited the escalating threat from Russia to NATO, compounded by uncertainties surrounding US commitment to European security. China’s growing global influence and strategic ambitions were also highlighted as sources of geopolitical instability.

Greenland Controversy and US-Danish Relations

The report references recent tensions between Denmark and the United States, including the fallout from former President Donald Trump’s proposal to purchase Greenland—a resource-rich, strategically located Arctic territory. Though Trump has not revisited the proposal in recent months, the incident exemplified how US foreign policy moves can complicate long-standing alliances.

According to the report, “Russia will try to exploit the US desire for a quick end to the Ukraine war to sow division between the US and Europe,” reflecting Denmark’s concern that competing strategic priorities could weaken NATO cohesion.

Implications for NATO and Europe

Denmark’s assessment highlights a broader challenge for NATO: balancing reliance on the United States with the need to safeguard European security independently. The DDIS warns that European nations, including Denmark, must remain vigilant and prepared for scenarios in which allies may act in ways that do not fully align with Europe’s security interests.

The intelligence report marks a rare public acknowledgment of tensions within the transatlantic alliance, signaling that even traditional allies may now view US policies with caution.