COPENHAGEN, Denmark — Denmark’s legislative body has given the green light to a bill permitting the establishment of U.S. military bases on Danish ground. This decision comes in the wake of efforts by former President Donald Trump to assert control over Greenland, a semi-autonomous part of the Danish realm. Observers have expressed concerns that this move represents a surrender of Danish autonomy to American interests. The newly ratified law expands a prior military arrangement reached in 2023 with the Biden administration, which had already granted U.S. military personnel extensive access to airbases within Denmark.
The fresh terms emerge against the backdrop of the U.S.’s interest in the geopolitically valuable Arctic island, Greenland, which is rich in minerals. Despite Denmark and the U.S. being allies within the NATO framework, the issue of Greenland has stirred diplomatic dialogue. In response to inquiries from fellow legislators, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen assured that Denmark retains the option to annul the agreement should the U.S. attempt any form of annexation of Greenland, either partially or wholly.
The bill saw a substantial majority in favor, with 94 lawmakers supporting it while 11 voted against. Following parliamentary approval, the legislation now awaits the signature of Danish King Frederik X to become law. Previously, Greenland’s prime minister voiced disapproval over U.S. remarks about the island, emphasizing that Greenland is not an asset to be purchased, underscoring the island’s resolve to remain distinct from opportunistic transactions.