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Taking action reminiscent of TV series guards, the Danish foreign affairs department has initiated a night watch team—not to fend off fantasy threats, but to track the US president while Denmark sleeps.

The night watch begins at 5 p.m. local time each day and concludes with a summary produced at 7am, which is then circulated throughout government departments and concerned offices detailing statements made and developments that occurred.

The role is understood to have been established in the wake of the diplomatic row involving Denmark and Washington regarding the Arctic island earlier this year, when the US president threatened taking control of the resource-rich territory.

Observers point out that this measure is among several instances of how Denmark's foreign policy and its government administration have had to adjust to the new reality of the second Trump administration.

An insider close to the ministry stated, “It is fair to say that the situation in the region and the time zone gap separating Denmark and the United States was quite an important factor prompting this system during the earlier months.”

Instead of all staff having to immediately check their phones to stay informed on news from the United States, the foreign office explained it had made a collective effort to remain informed on Trump activities.

Jacob Kaarsbo, a former chief analyst at the Danish defence intelligence agency, commented that this development showed, “as long understood,” that the notion of the United States as Denmark's largest and most important partner was dead. “Partnerships are built on common values and a common threat perception,” Kaarsbo said. “The president lacks both of those with Denmark and it can be said he doesn't share it with most Europeans.”