Denmark's tough lady takes on NATO leadership ahead of White House visit.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is speculated to be a contender for the position of the first female NATO secretary-general, with her visit to the White House on Monday seen as a vetting opportunity. Frederiksen gained respect for her efforts to strengthen Western unity in the face of conflict as a staunch supporter of Ukraine in its war with Russia. However, Denmark's long-standing low defence spending is a potential obstacle to her candidacy. Last week, Frederiksen announced heavy investments in defence over the next 10 years and increased military aid to Ukraine, which the government said would help to temporarily achieve the NATO target this year and next.