NAZI RELATIONS WITH DENMARK

Southland Times, Issue 24868, 7 October 1942, Page 5

NAZI RELATIONS WITH DENMARK

FATE OF NORWAY MAY BE REPRODUCED (Rec. 8.35 p.m.) LONDON, October 5. Although Reuters reports that a lastminute compromise between Germany and Denmark momentarily saved Denmark from the same fate, as Norway, dispatches from Stockholm state that diplomatic relations between the countries are the most tense since Denmark was over-run. The German Minister to Copenhagen, Herr Renthefink, returned to Berlin, after which King Christian recalled the Danish Minister to Berlin, M. Mohr, “for consultations.” German circles say Herr Renthefink’s return is the outcome of King Christian’s action in replying to Hitler’s fullsome seventy-second birthday congratulations with a curt “Thanks — Christian X.” It is reported, however, that King Christian sent a letter to Hitler amplifying his thanks telegram. The Daily Telegraph’s Stockholm correspondent says the Germans actually have a far more sinister reason for picking a quarrel with Denmark. Hitler intends to produce a European charter proclaiming a voluntary alliance of all members of the Axis and their satellites against Russia and the Allies. Hitler has already demanded that King Christian sign the charter, backed by a threat that the Gestapo otherwise will take over Denmark and govern it on the same lines as Norway and other occupied countries. The Stockholm correspondent of The Daily Express says it is believed that Hitler intends to put Denmark under Fritz Clausen, the Danish Nazi leader. Copenhagen’s police chief warned the public to keep calm and not to be shocked if something happened. Armed members of the Danish Nazi Free Corps, unexpectedly sent back from the Russian front, are swaggering in Copenhagen’s streets and cafes seeking opportunities for shootings, two of which have occurred, with 28 victims. General Ludke, commander of the German troops in Denmark, who is said to oppose interference with Danish domestic affairs, has been replaced by General Heydeberck, who has been given wider powers and orders to coSite fully with the Gestapo chief, tein.