Copenhagen: A wave of solemn outrage swept through Copenhagen on Saturday as thousands of Danes took to the streets in a silent march to express solidarity with military veterans after controversial remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump about European NATO forces. The protest, marked by discipline and quiet reflection, highlighted the deep emotional impact of Trump’s comments on Denmark’s armed forces and veterans community.
The demonstration began at Kastellet, Copenhagen’s historic 17th-century fortress, where veterans, their families, and supporters gathered for a ceremonial tribute to fallen comrades. Participants then proceeded in a long column along major city avenues toward the United States Embassy, carrying Danish flags and placards. The marchers-maintained silence throughout, underscoring the solemn nature of their protest. Police estimated the turnout at approximately 10,000 people, reflecting widespread national concern over the perceived slight against Danish soldiers.
Trump’s remarks, which suggested that European troops “stayed a little back” during NATO operations in Afghanistan, were widely criticized by Danish veterans as dismissive of their sacrifices. Denmark, despite its small population, suffered significant casualties in Afghanistan and Iraq, including 44 soldiers killed in Afghanistan and eight in Iraq. Many veterans and supporters viewed the U.S. President’s words as undermining the courage and dedication of Danish forces deployed in coalition operations over the past two decades.
The symbolic centerpiece of the protest was a display of Danish flags bearing the names of fallen soldiers. Earlier in the week, embassy staff had temporarily removed 44 flags placed outside the U.S. embassy, prompting public outcry before the flags were later restored. On Saturday, organizers led a period of silence outside the embassy to honor Denmark’s army, navy, air force, emergency services, and police representing the full spectrum of the nation’s defenders.
Veterans like Jesper Larsen, who lost close friends in combat, spoke openly about the emotional wounds reopened by the President’s remarks. “I think he owes all my combat friends an apology,” Larsen said, capturing a sentiment echoed by many participants. The protest thus became not only a public demonstration of respect for veterans but also a call for recognition of their sacrifices at an international level.
The Copenhagen march also highlighted broader diplomatic sensitivities. European leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, publicly criticized Trump’s comments as disrespectful to NATO allies. Meanwhile, tensions over Denmark’s semi-autonomous territory of Greenland and Trump’s repeated suggestions regarding U.S. strategic interests there have further complicated relations between Washington and Copenhagen.
Despite these tensions, the organizers emphasized that the protest was directed at Trump’s rhetoric, not at the American people. Marchers sought to convey pride in Danish service and a demand for mutual respect among allies. As the silent march concluded beneath the pale winter sky, participants reflected collectively on the sacrifices of Denmark’s soldiers, the resilience of its veterans, and the enduring importance of national honor and international recognition.