Russia Likely to Target Denmark’s Election with Influence Campaigns

Denmark’s security and intelligence service, PET, has assessed that it is “highly likely” Russia will conduct influence operations targeting the country’s upcoming parliamentary elections, scheduled for March 24th. The assessment, reported Friday, marks a heightened level of concern regarding foreign interference in Danish politics.

According to PET, Russia’s potential campaign aims to “promote the Russian agenda, create division and weaken support for Ukraine.” This assessment represents the most explicit warning of potential Russian interference ever issued by the Danish security service, according to TV2’s political analyst Astrid Søndberg.

The warning comes as Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen campaigns for re-election. PET’s analysis also identifies the United States as a potential source of influence operations, though with a different stated objective. The report indicates that the U.S. Has demonstrated a desire to regain control over Greenland, leading to the spread of disinformation about Denmark that could create uncertainty during the election period.

The potential influence tactics outlined by PET include the dissemination of false or distorted news, minor cyberattacks, and threats of more serious cyberattacks. The agency noted that American attempts to influence the debate may originate from actors not directly affiliated with the U.S. Administration.

The assessment highlights Denmark as a “specific, prioritized target” for Russian influence activities, according to a statement released by PET. The timing of the warning, less than a month before the election, underscores the urgency of the situation.