Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen was the victim of an assault in Copenhagen, suffering a minor neck injury after being pushed by a 39-year-old Polish man. Despite initial fears, the incident, which occurred just days before the European Parliament elections, is not believed to be politically motivated. The assailant, who was intoxicated and under the influence of drugs at the time, has been taken into custody and is scheduled to remain there until June 20th. He has expressed that he did not have any issues with the Prime Minister’s political activities and thought she was doing a ‘very good’ job. The attack has prompted a wave of support for Frederiksen from both national and international leaders. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned the violence, stating it goes against European values. Frederiksen, who has been Prime Minister since 2019, was taken to Rigshospitalet but did not sustain serious injuries. She has canceled her scheduled appearances as a result of the attack. The incident raises questions about the normalization of violence against elected leaders, as it follows other recent attacks on political figures across Europe.
Key points
- Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen was assaulted by a 39-year-old Polish man, resulting in a minor neck injury.
- The assault is not believed to be politically motivated, and the suspect has been remanded in custody until June 20th.
- European leaders have condemned the attack and expressed support for Frederiksen.
- Frederiksen has canceled her engagements following the incident.
