Denmark assumes EU presidency

Experts say rotation comes at a stormy time, citing range of challenges ahead

Denmark officially began its turn at the helm of the Council of the European Union on Thursday with its six-month rotating presidency coming at an especially stormy time.

Experts are predicting the nation will be tasked with coordinating fault lines over United States-EU trade deals and defense spending increases, while also watching for possible nudges from US President Donald Trump on the matter of the sovereignty of Greenland.

At a joint news conference in Denmark's Aarhus on Thursday with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen outlined her priorities during the months ahead, which include rearming Europe and toughening migration control.