Denmark Faces Legal Challenge Over US Defence Deal Amid Greenland Tensions
February 14, 2026
Denmark could face legal action over a 2023 defence agreement that gives the US wide powers on Danish land. The deal allows the US "unhindered access" to airbases and power over Danish civilians. Independent MP Theresa Scavenius plans to sue Denmark, saying the agreement breaks their constitution. She states, "The law is unconstitutional because it delegates authority to the US governmental bodies or soldiers on Danish territory over Danish civilians. That is explicitly not allowed in our constitution." The agreement was signed under the Biden administration and approved by the Danish parliament in 2024. It keeps US soldiers in Denmark under US law, grants access to airbases in Karup, Skrydstrup, and Aalborg, and gives American soldiers powers over Danish civilians at and near these bases. The Danish constitution says sovereignty can only be given to international bodies if five-sixths of parliament agrees. This defence deal did not get that support. Though the deal does not cover Greenland, past threats by Donald Trump to invade Greenland have increased tensions and concern. Critics warn the US might use force against civilians. Scavenius stressed, "It was essential that any constitutional matters be resolved urgently before beginning negotiations over Greenland." The Danish Institute for Human Rights warns the agreement could let US soldiers stop demonstrations near bases and avoid Danish prosecution for misuse of force. Researcher Peter Vedel Kessing said, "If the bill is passed and American soldiers carry out illegal acts in Denmark, it will be beyond Danish control and outside the reach of the Danish legal system to prosecute such actions." Despite protests, MPs approved the deal by a large majority in June 2025. Denmark’s Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, said the deal did not harm sovereignty and was vital to keep close US ties. She said, "The problem is not too much involvement from the US in Europe. On the contrary, the risk is that the US will withdraw and move troops away or stop donations to Ukraine." Scavenius has applied for free legal aid and plans to file the lawsuit soon. The Danish defence ministry acknowledged possible legal claims but gave no comments.
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Tags:
Denmark
Us Defence Agreement
Constitutional Lawsuit
Greenland
Us Military Presence
Danish Sovereignty
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