Did a U.S. senator just insult a NATO ally’s prime minister in the middle of a security summit? Witnesses say the room went silent.
U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham has been accused of making sexist and inappropriate remarks during a diplomatic meeting in Munich with Denmark’s prime minister and Greenland’s leader, according to multiple media reports.
The meeting, held on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, included Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen. It focused on tensions surrounding former President Donald Trump’s past threats to annex Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark and a NATO ally.
According to accounts cited by Danish newspaper Berlingske and first reported by Puck, Graham allegedly addressed Frederiksen as “little lady” during the talks, a remark described by witnesses as “disturbing,” “shocking” and “extremely inappropriate.” The reports also allege that he yawned in Nielsen’s face in a manner perceived as mocking.
Sources cited in the coverage described Graham as combative and using profane language during the exchange. One attendee reportedly compared his behavior to “Graham on his worst TV day.”
Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin, who was said to be present, allegedly left the meeting in shock before later returning. The Independent reported that it had sought comment from both Graham and Slotkin.
Frederiksen, according to accounts of the meeting, remained composed. Witnesses said she waited for Graham to finish before telling him that once he was done, the meeting could continue.
The reported incident comes at a sensitive moment in transatlantic relations. The question of Greenland’s strategic importance has resurfaced in recent years, particularly amid renewed U.S. interest in Arctic security and resource access.
If confirmed, the exchange could add strain to already delicate diplomatic ties, particularly as European leaders weigh Washington’s posture toward allies and NATO partners.
