🔗 Share this article

Taking action inspired by TV series guards, Denmark's foreign ministry has created a night watch unit—far from guarding against mythical threats, but to monitor the US president while Denmark is asleep.

The night watch starts at 5pm local time each day and ends with a summary compiled at 7 a.m., which is then distributed across government departments and relevant offices covering statements made and developments taking place.

This position is believed to have been established following the bilateral dispute between Denmark and the US regarding Greenland earlier this year, when the US president suggested taking control of the strategic territory.

Observers point out that this measure is one of multiple examples of how Danish diplomacy and its government administration have had to adapt to the new reality of the Trump's current term.

A source close to the ministry remarked, “It is fair to say that the situation in the region and the time difference between Denmark and the United States was quite an important factor introducing this system during the spring.”

Instead of all staff needing to immediately check their devices to stay informed on updates from the US, the foreign office said it had undertaken a coordinated approach to remain informed on the president's actions.

An expert, a former senior analyst at the Danish defence intelligence agency, stated that this development demonstrated, “as long understood,” that the notion of the United States as Denmark’s primary ally was no longer valid. “Alliances are built on common values and a mutual view of threats,” Kaarsbo added. “Trump shares neither of those with Denmark and it can be said he doesn't share it with the majority of Europe.”