Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen Attacked on the Streets of Copenhagen Ahead of European Election

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
07/06/2024 23h19

In a shocking incident just two days before the European Parliament election, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen was attacked on a street in Copenhagen. Local media reports suggest that although she was visibly shocked, the Social Democrat leader did not sustain any visible injuries.

Eyewitnesses at the scene reported that the assailant was swiftly apprehended, and Danish broadcaster TV2 confirmed the arrest of a suspect. This attack comes amidst a rising tension with a series of recent attacks on politicians across Europe.

The European Parliament President, Roberta Metsola, was quick to condemn the assault, posting on social media, "Tonight's assault on the Danish Prime Minister is appalling. Violence has no place in politics. Keep strong, Mette!"

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, also expressed shock and sympathy towards Frederiksen, stating, "I condemn this despicable act which goes against everything we believe and fight for in Europe. I wish you strength and courage - I know you have plenty of both."

In Denmark, the attack on Frederiksen has reverberated throughout the political landscape. Magnus Heunicke, Denmark's Social Democrat Environment Minister, expressed that the incident had shaken everyone close to the Prime Minister. He emphasized the need for unity and the preservation of the country's core values.

International leaders have joined in expressing concern for Frederiksen. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson took to social media to send his thoughts. "Tonight my thoughts and those of my family are with her," he wrote.

Mette Frederiksen, who has held office since 2019, has been a prominent figure in Danish politics. Known for her ability to build alliances across political divides, Frederiksen has been named as a possible future candidate for the post of European Council president. Her party currently leads in the latest polling ahead of Sunday's election.

As the investigation continues, security measures are expected to be heightened to ensure the safety of politicians and the smooth progress of the upcoming European Parliament election.

This is a developing story, and further updates will follow.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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