In her first television interview since the shocking assault on the streets of Copenhagen last week, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen revealed that she is still feeling the effects of the attack, both physically and emotionally. Frederiksen, who is suffering from minor whiplash, vowed to continue working despite the lingering pain.

The 46-year-old prime minister was assaulted by a man on Kultorvet, a busy square in the Danish capital, just two days before the European Parliament elections, which are considered the world's largest elections outside India. While Frederiksen did not provide specifics about the attack, she mentioned having seen threats on social media and stated that public shouting had become more prevalent, particularly after conflicts in the Middle East.

Danish police have arrested a 39-year-old Polish man in connection with the assault. However, authorities stated that they do not believe his actions were politically motivated. The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, has since expressed admiration for Frederiksen, referring to her as a "really good prime minister."

The incident has garnered condemnation at home and abroad, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen describing it as "despicable" and asserting that it runs counter to the values Europe stands for. Similar acts of violence during the European elections have occurred, including the shooting of Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico and an assault on German social democrat Matthias Ecke.

During the interview, Frederiksen expressed concern about the increasing aggression faced by politicians in society. She emphasized her desire for a Denmark where the prime minister can bicycle to work without fear, emphasizing that the attack felt personal to her, but also highlighting that it was an attack on the office of the prime minister and on society as a whole.

Frederiksen, who made history in 2019 by becoming the youngest prime minister in Denmark's history at the age of 41, remains committed to her duties despite the challenges posed by the assault. As she continues to recover, she hopes for a safer environment for politicians and a country where leaders can carry out their work without being threatened or endangered.