Denmark votes for defence bill giving US access to its airbases
Denmark has approved a controversial defence agreement granting the US extensive military powers on its soil, including unrestricted access to Danish airbases and jurisdiction over American troops stationed there. The deal allows US forces to operate out of airbases in Karup, Skrydstrup, and Aalborg, and grants them authority even over Danish civilians in and around these areas. It also enables the US to conduct military activities across Denmark and exempts its soldiers from Danish law, raising concerns about sovereignty and human rights. While the Danish government defends the agreement as essential for maintaining strong US ties amid geopolitical tensions, critics—including human rights experts and opposition politicians—warn it undermines Danish sovereignty and legal protections.