Denmark Warns: US-Europe Rift Benefits Russia and China

Denmark's military intelligence agency has issued a stark warning that the Nordic nation faces more external threats than ever before, as growing doubts about America's commitment to European security create dangerous vulnerabilities that could benefit Russia and China.

The warning from Denmark's Defence Intelligence Service (FE) comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions and increasing uncertainty about the future of transatlantic relations. The intelligence assessment highlights how the potential deepening of US-Europe divisions could create strategic opportunities for adversaries seeking to exploit Western disunity.

Expert Analysis: The Perception Gap

Elisabeth Braw, a senior fellow with the Atlantic Council's Transatlantic Security Initiative and POLITICO columnist, argues that fundamental misperceptions are driving the transatlantic divide. Speaking on France 24, Braw emphasized that "the real Europe is different from the Europe that Trump sees," suggesting that misconceptions about European capabilities and contributions are exacerbating tensions.

This perception gap has significant implications for NATO cohesion and collective defense strategies. While European nations have substantially increased their defense spending and taken on greater security responsibilities, questions about American reliability continue to undermine alliance solidarity.

Strategic Implications for Global Powers

The intelligence warning underscores how Russia and China stand to gain from weakened Western unity. Both nations have consistently sought to exploit divisions within NATO and between the US and Europe through disinformation campaigns, economic pressure, and strategic partnerships with European nations.

Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine has already tested transatlantic resolve, while China's growing influence in European markets and infrastructure projects presents long-term strategic challenges. A fractured alliance would provide both powers with enhanced opportunities to advance their respective geopolitical objectives.

Denmark's Unique Vulnerabilities

Denmark's geographic position makes it particularly sensitive to shifts in great power competition. The country's Arctic territories, strategic shipping lanes, and advanced technology sectors make it a target for foreign intelligence operations and economic coercion.

The Danish assessment reflects broader European concerns about security in an era of multipolar competition. As traditional security guarantees face scrutiny, smaller NATO members find themselves navigating increasingly complex threat environments.

The Path Forward

Addressing these challenges requires renewed dialogue between Washington and European capitals, based on realistic assessments of mutual interests and capabilities. The stakes extend beyond regional security, potentially reshaping the global balance of power for decades to come.