The Danish Parliament (Folketinget) has approved a defence cooperation agreement that allows the United States to establish military bases in Denmark, marking a significant shift in the country’s defence policy. The agreement passed with broad support, with only the Red-Green Alliance (Enhedslisten), The Alternative (Alternativet), and independent MP Theresa Scavenius voting against it.
Strategic agreement with broad implications
The defence cooperation agreement permits the stationing of American troops on Danish soil and the prepositioning of military equipment and weapons. This move is framed as a response to the evolving security situation in Europe, especially following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Under the deal, American forces deployed in Denmark will be primarily subject to US law, a point that has triggered concerns over Danish sovereignty and legal jurisdiction. While Denmark retains some judicial rights, prosecution of US personnel on Danish territory is expected to be limited in scope.
Concerns over sovereignty and legal oversight
Critics argue that the agreement compromises national sovereignty, effectively giving the United States partial jurisdiction over parts of Danish territory. According to the agreement, Denmark may terminate the cooperation if the USA attempts to alter the status of Greenland, the autonomous Arctic territory that is part of the Kingdom of Denmark.
The US already operates the Thule Air Base in Greenland, a key facility for missile warning and space surveillance. Tensions over Greenland flared when President Donald Trump suggested the US might purchase the island, prompting a firm rejection from both Danish and Greenlandic authorities.
Denmark aligns more closely with NATO priorities
The move to allow US bases aligns Denmark more closely with NATO’s strategic priorities in northern Europe and the Arctic. It also follows similar agreements signed with Norway and Finland, reflecting a broader trend of increased US military presence in the Nordic region.
Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen emphasized that the agreement reinforces Denmark’s security guarantees and maintains room for political decision-making. He also underlined Denmark’s right to withdraw from the agreement should US actions contradict Danish interests.
