Denmark approves U.S. military bases on Danish soil as Trump eyes Greenland - Los Angeles Times


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Key Decision: US Military Bases in Denmark

The Danish Parliament approved legislation permitting the establishment of US military bases within Denmark. This decision expands upon a 2023 agreement providing US troops access to Danish airbases.

Context: Trump's Greenland Ambitions

This move comes amidst President Trump's past attempts to acquire Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark. This pursuit fueled criticism and raised concerns about Danish sovereignty.

Opposition and Safeguards

Critics argued the vote compromises Danish sovereignty. However, the Danish Foreign Minister assured that the agreement includes a termination clause if the US attempts to annex Greenland.

Greenland's Stance

Greenland's prime minister explicitly rejected any suggestion of the island being for sale.

Vote Outcome

The bill passed with a significant majority: 94 votes in favor and 11 against. It awaits the King's signature to become law.

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COPENHAGEN, Denmark — Denmark’s Parliament on Wednesday approved a bill to allow U.S. military bases on Danish soil, a move that comes as President Trump seeks to take control of the kingdom’s semi-autonomous territory of Greenland.

Critics say the vote ceded Danish sovereignty to the U.S. The legislation widens a previous military agreement, made in 2023 with the Biden administration, where U.S. troops had broad access to Danish airbases in the Scandinavian country.

The new parameters follow Trump’s coveting of the strategic, mineral-rich Arctic island even as the U.S. and Denmark are NATO allies.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, in a response to lawmakers’ questions, wrote that Denmark would be able to terminate the agreement if the U.S. tries to annex all or part of Greenland.

Ninety-four lawmakers voted for the bill, with 11 against. The legislation now goes to Danish King Frederik X for his signature.

Greenland’s prime minister previously said U.S. statements about the island have been disrespectful and it “will never, ever be a piece of property that can be bought by just anyone.”

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