Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has publicly criticized China for its support of Russia in the ongoing war in Ukraine. During a recent address, she stated that Russia would not have been able to sustain a full-scale invasion for over two-and-a-half years without the backing of China. Frederiksen emphasized the need for political consequences for China's actions, calling for a reevaluation of EU trade relations with China due to Europe's over-dependence on Chinese support [48fb0f71].
This statement comes amid growing concerns in Europe regarding China's influence and its geopolitical maneuvers. The Danish PM's remarks align with a broader sentiment in Europe, where leaders are increasingly wary of China's role in destabilizing the region. Frederiksen also expressed support for Ukraine's request for long-range missiles, highlighting Denmark's commitment to aiding Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression [48fb0f71].
The backdrop of these developments includes China's investments in EU neighbourhood countries, which have raised alarms about its growing influence in the region. A report by the Financial Times noted that China has surpassed the US in investments in countries like Serbia and Montenegro, leveraging its Belt and Road Initiative to expand its economic footprint [b3eec10b].
As Europe grapples with its relationship with China, the Danish PM's comments reflect a critical juncture in international relations. The EU's trade with China, valued at nearly 740 billion euros, has not been met with significant economic repercussions for China's actions, allowing Beijing to maintain its influence while undermining the credibility of the US and its allies [ca5a60b0].
Frederiksen's administration, which has been in power since 2019, is set to take a more prominent role in international diplomacy as Denmark prepares to join the U.N. Security Council in January 2025. Her call for accountability from China underscores the shifting dynamics in global politics and the need for a united European response to external threats [48fb0f71].