Denmark Leads EU Amid Ukraine War, Trump Tariffs

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Denmark Leads EU Amid Ukraine War, Trump Tariffs/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Denmark begins its EU presidency vowing to strengthen Europe’s defense and economic resilience amid Russia’s war on Ukraine and looming Trump tariffs. The government plans action on climate, migration, and EU enlargement. Challenges include budget negotiations and bridging divides within the bloc.

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen attend the ARoS art museum during the official opening of Denmark’s EU presidency in Aarhus, Denmark, Thursday July 3, 2025. (Liselotte Sabroe/Ritzau Scanpix via AP)

Quick Look

Denmark EU Presidency Quick Look

Denmark launches its EU presidency on July 3
Priorities include defense, economic competitiveness, climate goals
Russia’s war and Trump tariffs shape key debates
Ukraine and Moldova’s EU hopes face Hungary’s resistance
Migration policies continue under Denmark’s tough stance
Upcoming EU budget talks pose financial challenges
Denmark aims for unity in a polarized Europe

People relax at the the harbour bath at Ofelia Square in Copenhagen, Denmark, Wednesday July 2, 2025. (Thomas Traasdahl/Ritzau Scanpix via AP)

Denmark Takes EU Helm Amid Ukraine War, Trump Tariffs, and Global Challenges

Deep Look

AARHUS, Denmark (AP) — Denmark launched its presidency of the European Union on Thursday, pledging to steer the bloc through turbulent times marked by Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and the economic uncertainties sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff policies.

“We have war on European soil. We face trade wars and new tariffs, and our closest ally, the United States, is turning increasingly inward,” Danish European Affairs Minister Marie Bjerre said as she addressed a crowd in Aarhus. “Europe can no longer remain in the shadow of the United States. We need to stand on our own two feet.”

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen joined celebrations in the western Danish city as Denmark embarked on its eighth EU presidency since joining the bloc in 1973.

Under the motto “A Strong Europe in a Changing World,” Denmark plans to focus on strengthening Europe’s security, enhancing competitiveness, and tackling climate change during its six-month tenure.

Security and Defense: Preparing for a Post-Trump Era

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, now stretching into its fourth year, remains the EU’s top security concern. NATO has warned that Russia could pose further threats to other European nations within three to five years. The alliance has called for member states to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP, a steep rise from current levels.

Denmark’s presidency aims to push forward plans that will enable European nations to jointly procure and produce defense equipment, reducing reliance on external suppliers — particularly as Trump’s foreign policy signals less focus on European security.

EU Enlargement: Ukraine and Moldova in the Balance

Denmark is also determined to keep Ukraine and Moldova moving forward on their EU membership paths. Moldova has been destabilized by Russian influence operations, including disinformation and energy blackmail. However, Hungary remains a stumbling block for Ukraine’s accession, with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán insisting Ukraine should serve as a neutral buffer between NATO and Russia.

Bjerre confirmed that Denmark intends to use all “political and practical means” to convince Hungary to drop its veto, while also sending a strong message of hope to Western Balkan nations waiting for EU entry.

Economic Competitiveness and Trade Challenges

Trump’s looming tariff hike, with a 90-day pause expiring on July 9, poses significant challenges for Europe’s export-driven economies. Denmark plans to expedite trade negotiations with global partners such as India and reduce bureaucratic hurdles to foster innovation.

The upcoming debate over the EU’s next seven-year budget, starting in 2028, will also weigh heavily on Denmark’s agenda. With rising defense costs, member states are cautious about additional financial commitments.

Climate Goals and Energy Security

Despite recent setbacks, the EU remains committed to its 2050 climate neutrality target. Denmark will lead discussions on a 2040 milestone to guide the bloc’s climate strategy, including transitioning away from fossil fuels — an issue highlighted by Europe’s previous reliance on Russian energy supplies.

While dependency on Russian oil and gas has declined significantly since 2022, Denmark insists the phaseout must continue. It also seeks to simplify the EU’s agricultural policy to help farmers meet environmental standards without excessive bureaucracy.

Migration Policy: Tough Stance Continues

Denmark’s presidency will maintain the EU’s controversial approach to migration. Prime Minister Frederiksen has previously envisioned a “zero asylum-seeker” scenario. Under Denmark’s leadership, efforts will continue to establish “return hubs” outside Europe where rejected asylum-seekers can be relocated.

Work is also ongoing to implement the EU’s sweeping new asylum and migration pact, intended to unify the bloc’s approach but still mired in disagreements over how to share responsibility among member states.

From securing Europe’s defenses and economic future to managing migration and combating climate change, Denmark’s presidency comes at a pivotal moment. As Bjerre put it, the challenges ahead require Europe to “stand firmly on its own feet” amid shifting global tides.