Denmark takes over EU Council presidency: What's behind the shift?

As of July 1, Denmark has taken over the presidency of the Council of the European Union. Over the next six months, the country will focus on strengthening the EU’s security, supporting Ukraine, and developing the European defense industry.

Official Copenhagen states that the main task will be to create a more resilient and independent European Union, capable of responding independently to geopolitical challenges.

Pressure on the Russian Federation and support for Ukraine

"In the face of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and a changing geopolitical landscape characterised by uncertainty, global strategic competition, a technological race and increased conflict, the Foreign Affairs Council will work towards a more robust and resilient EU that takes greater responsibility for its own security. The goal is for Europe to be able to defend itself by 2030. This will also constitute a credible contribution to Euro-Atlantic security," the Danish government statement says.

In the context of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine, Denmark emphasizes the need for continued political, military, and economic support for Kyiv, as well as maintaining pressure on Moscow, in particular through sanctions.

Global partnerships

In addition, under Denmark’s presidency, the EU plans to expand global partnerships, strengthen its presence on the world stage, and focus on developing stable democracies, sustainable growth, and strengthening economic capacity.

Denmark also promises active cooperation with the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, to implement these priorities.

Denmark will be the first country with which Kyiv will launch joint defense production.

In addition, Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated her country’s readiness to abandon the EU’s traditionally strict budget policy in light of Russia’s war against Ukraine. She emphasized that Europe urgently needs to change its approach to defense funding.