Frederiksen faces tough coalition talks after weak election showing

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is seeking a path to remain in power after her Social Democrats recorded their worst election result in more than a century, despite winning the largest share of the vote.

While her firm stance on foreign policy, including relations with the US, Greenland and the war in Ukraine, has bolstered her profile abroad, discontent has grown at home. The rising cost of living and immigration dominated the campaign, overshadowing her international credentials.

The party is expected to win around 38 seats, a significant drop from the previous election. Nevertheless, the left-wing bloc still has a chance of forming a government, though negotiations are likely to be difficult.

Frederiksen has faced criticism from both sides, with some on the left opposing her strict immigration policies, and critics on the right questioning her credibility on the economy.

(reuters, mja)