Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is recovering from whiplash after being assaulted in Copenhagen on Friday. The incident occurred in Kultorvet Square, one of the city’s main squares. According to eyewitnesses, a man approached Frederiksen and pushed her hard on the shoulder, causing her to be shoved aside. Fortunately, the Prime Minister did not fall during the attack.

Frederiksen was swiftly taken to a hospital for a check-up. Her office released a statement on Saturday confirming that she is otherwise fine but has been left “shaken” by the incident. The assailant, a 39-year-old man, has been arrested by the police.

The motive behind the assault remains unclear, but local media reports indicate that it was not related to any campaign event. Frederiksen has been actively campaigning for the European Parliament elections alongside the Danish Social Democrats’ EU candidate, Christel Schaldemose. The elections are currently underway in Denmark and across the 27-nation bloc, concluding on Sunday.

International leaders have condemned the attack and expressed their support for Frederiksen. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasized that “violence has no place in politics” and wished Frederiksen a swift recovery. Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron also condemned the assault, stating that “violence and intimidation of politicians must not be tolerated.”

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, a personal friend of Frederiksen, expressed his shock and reiterated that NATO allies stand together to protect democracy and the rule of law. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and European Council President Charles Michel also condemned the attack, highlighting its implications for democracy.

Despite the assault, Frederiksen continues her political activities. She cast her advanced vote for the European Parliament elections on Saturday. As the investigation continues, the international community watches closely, underscoring the importance of safeguarding democratic processes and leaders