King Frederik talks Europe’s future in New Year’s Eve address

King Frederik of Denmark addressed Danes live on New Year’s Eve to discuss the future of Europe.

The King began his speech talking about being a parent and the 18th birthday of his elder daughter, Princess Isabella.

“Queen Mary and I enjoy watching our children grow, find their feet, and take steps to fly from the nest. At the same time, the thought of letting go is sad,” he said.

Like many of his European counterparts, His Majesty also touched on Ukraine and shared his ongoing support and praising the country’s strength.

“Just a few thousand kilometres from Denmark, Ukrainians are fighting for their freedom. For almost four years, they have endured, stood their ground, and held fast to their right to exist as a free and independent country,” the King stated.

King Frederik also mentioned Finland and Latvia, remarking on their quest for freedom and peace throughout the years. He also warned against fake news and unrest.

He said, “The trick is to follow without letting fear get the better of us. To be aware without dancing to the tune of the wrong people. To prevent lice from settling in the fur.”

Denmark standing together, NATO, and thanking the military and first responders were also touched on during the speech.

The King served in the military and directly addressed conscripts, “I would like to send a New Year’s greeting to our conscripts. Thank you for signing up and taking a turn for the community. I hope that you – like the Crown Prince recently and myself in his time – grow through the trust you receive and show others. 

“You are the foundation of the defence, which will be strengthened in the future – both in terms of duration and in terms of manpower.”

His Christian faith, Greenland, the Faroe Islands, Danish athletes and sports, and craftsmanship rounded out his New Year’s Eve speech.