Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen was attacked in central Copenhagen on Friday evening. The identity and motive of the attacker are currently unknown, but a man has been arrested in connection with the incident.
The assault took place at Kultorvet square, a popular pedestrian area in the heart of Copenhagen. According to eyewitnesses, Frederiksen was approached by a man who struck her before being apprehended by security personnel and police officers.
Frederiksen's office released a statement confirming the incident and expressing her shock. The Danish prime minister is reportedly unharmed but understandably shaken by the attack.
Political leaders from across Denmark and Europe have condemned the assault on Frederiksen, with many expressing their concern for her wellbeing and solidarity in light of this violent incident.
The attack comes just days before Danes head to the polls in the EU elections. The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called it a 'despicable act' that goes against everything Europe stands for, while Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson described it as an attack on democracy.
This is not the first time a European leader has been targeted in such a manner. Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico was shot and seriously injured in an assassination attempt earlier this year, raising concerns about political violence and instability across Europe.
The investigation into Frederiksen's attack is ongoing, with police urging the public to come forward with any information that could help identify the perpetrator. In the meantime, security measures have been increased around government buildings and key figures in Denmark.
