Denmark Sets Up Special Watch System to Track President Trump Following Greenland Dispute

Taking action reminiscent of fictional watches, Denmark's foreign ministry has created a nighttime monitoring unit—not to fend off mythical foes, but to monitor Donald Trump as Copenhagen is asleep.

The night watch starts at 5 p.m. in Denmark each day and concludes with a summary produced at 7am, which is then circulated throughout the Danish government and concerned offices covering statements made and developments taking place.

The role is believed to have been introduced following the diplomatic dispute between Copenhagen and Washington regarding Greenland this spring, when the American leader suggested acquiring control of the strategic island.

Observers note that this measure is among several instances of how Denmark's foreign policy and its government administration have had to adapt to the changed landscape of the Trump's current term.

A source close to the ministry stated, “It's accurate to say that the circumstances in Greenland and the time difference separating Denmark and the US was quite an important factor prompting this system in the spring.”

Rather than all staff having to immediately check their phones to catch up on updates from the United States, the ministry said it had made a coordinated approach to remain informed on Trump actions.

An expert, a former chief analyst at the Danish defence intelligence agency, stated that this development showed, “as long understood,” that the notion of the US as Denmark's primary partner was dead. “Alliances are built on shared principles and a common threat perception,” Kaarsbo said. “The president lacks both of those with Denmark and I would argue he doesn't share it with the majority of Europe.”