Logo: to the web site of the Swedish Defence University

Denmark has been described as an ‘impeccable’ and ‘trustworthy’ NATO ally, and as a ‘super-Atlanticist’, characterized by military engagement alongside the US and NATO. However, amid a changing security environment and US pressure on EU and European NATO members, as well as US rhetoric challenging Danish sovereignty over Greenland. This has directed Denmark towards a Europe-oriented focus on security and defence matters, as reflected in the removal of its EU defence opt-out, which is significant given Denmark's reputation as a ‘foot-dragging’ EU member. Hence, it is relevant to investigate how Denmark navigates its relations with the US, NATO, EU, and Greenland within its security identity. By examining the Danish security discourse between 2022 and 2025 through the WPR framework. The analysis reveals that Denmark is navigating its security identity between a loyal Transatlantic ally and emerging European security solidarities by positioning itself as a responsible and trustworthy ally. This is seen whether it is through contributing to Ukraine’s fight for freedom, strengthening the EuropeanPillar, or managing US rhetoric towards Greenland, Denmark presents its actions as a commitment to the rules-based order and to fundamental values, which are regarded as central to its security identity. The thesis also contributes theoretically by discussing the findings through the lens of ontological security theory.