🕒 Last updated on July 3, 2025
Denmark has issued a strong warning to European countries: do not slow down the green transition. The message comes just as the country prepares to take charge of leading climate talks across the European Union.
This comes at a critical moment. The European Commission is expected to present a new climate target next week. The target calls for a 90% cut in emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels. However, some countries are pushing back. They worry that the goal is too ambitious and may be too expensive.
Amid rising costs and pressure to boost military budgets, some governments want to delay green efforts. But Denmark says that would be a big mistake. The country believes that going green is not just about the environment—it’s also about energy security and competitiveness.
Green Energy Seen as Key to Europe’s Strength
Denmark argues that using more electricity and producing it locally will help Europe stay strong. This includes using renewable energy and nuclear power. The country’s climate minister made it clear that green energy is central to Europe’s future. He explained that moving away from fossil fuels makes the region safer and more self-reliant.
According to him, halting the green transition is not a solution. It would not help the climate, nor would it solve the security problems Europe faces today.
Denmark will soon hold the rotating presidency of the EU. This means it will lead the climate talks for the next six months. The country wants to make sure that Europe stays on course with its long-term climate goals.
Climate Goals Face Strong Political Pushback
While Denmark pushes forward, others are pushing back. Some European countries are nervous. They say the green plans are too expensive during hard times. Military spending is rising fast because of the war in Ukraine. Many nations are adjusting their budgets to respond to growing threats.
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In this tense moment, climate policy is becoming a sensitive topic. Countries like Poland and France are worried that pushing too hard on emissions might hurt their economies. Their industries and political leaders are feeling the pressure.
To ease this tension, the European Union has already softened some environmental rules this year. This rollback is an attempt to calm criticism from both member states and struggling industries. But it has also led to concern that the EU might lose momentum in its green efforts.
Climate and Security Crises Collide
Denmark says the green transition and military spending must both happen—even though the situation is tough. Europe faces growing threats, and these threats are forcing countries to rearm. But at the same time, the climate crisis is also getting worse. Denmark sees both problems as equally serious.
The upcoming climate target for 2040 is designed to help bridge the gap between the EU’s 2030 goals and its 2050 net-zero plan. Denmark believes this step is necessary and should not be delayed. It is calling on all EU countries to stay committed.
The country’s leaders say this is not a time for celebration. They say no one is happy about spending more on weapons or facing the climate crisis. But both are real challenges, and ignoring either could make things worse.
Denmark is expected to play a major role in shaping how the EU balances its green goals with its security needs. As the new presidency takes shape, the country will be at the center of this debate.