Denmark approves US military bases on Danish soil as Trump eyes Greenland

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

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

Danish foreign minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen, in a response to politicians’ questions, wrote that Denmark would be able to terminate the agreement if the US tries to annex all or part of Greenland.

Ninety-four politicians 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 US statements about the island have been disrespectful and it “will never, ever be a piece of property that can be bought by just anyone”.