Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen was assaulted by a man in Copenhagen. The incident occurred on Friday evening at Kultorvet, a public square in the city. As per the news reports from Frederiksen was physically struck by the assailant before he was apprehended by authorities.
The news prompted swift condemnation from world leaders, including Bharatiya Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi. Expressing deep concern, Modi condemned the attack and wished Frederiksen a speedy recovery.
Deeply concerned by the news of the attack on Mette Frederiksen, Denmark’s Prime Minister. We condemn the attack. Wishing good health to my friend. @Statsmin
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 8, 2024
Other leaders, such as Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, also expressed shock and solidarity with Frederiksen.
Denmark’s Minister of Environment, Magnus Heunicke, called for national unity in the aftermath of the assault. He emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding individuals regardless of political differences, stressing that such incidents should not occur in their “beautiful, safe, and free country.”
Frederiksen’s office confirmed her shock at the incident but refrained from providing details about any potential injuries sustained during the assault. The attack comes at a crucial time for Denmark, with the country gearing up for participation in the European Union elections, adding significance to the event.
Analysts and lawmakers have pointed to a broader context of growing political polarization across Europe, citing incidents like the recent assassination attempt on Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico. The assault on Frederiksen underscores concerns about an increasingly volatile political climate within the continent.
Frederiksen, a prominent figure in Denmark’s political landscape, has led the center-left Socialist Democratic party since 2019. Her tenure as prime minister has been marked by various challenges, and this assault adds another layer of complexity to her leadership amidst heightened tensions in European politics.
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