Denmark to step up defence co-operation with the US

Bilateral defence agreement has yet to be formed but it could include the stationing of US troops on Danish ground

In a press conference moments ago, PM Mette Frederiksen announced that Denmark would be enhancing co-operation via a new bilateral defence agreement.

The agreement has yet to be formed but it could include the stationing of US troops on Danish ground.

“This decision will benefit Denmark, the US and NATO, and that’s precisely what we want,” said the PM.

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Another US foothold in Europe
The discussions leading up to the agreement have been a long process, according to Frederiksen, and isn’t a reflection of the current tensions between the west and Russia, though it was something to consider.

The PM pointed to a similar co-operation the US presently has with Norway.

Defence minister Morten Bødskov underlined that the move wouldn’t open up for US bases to be placed in Denmark, but it would give the US military another foothold in Europe.

Foreign minister Jeppe Kofod said that Denmark was just one of several European countries stepping up defence partnerships with the US.

“Freedom isn’t for free and friends move closer together in times of strife. That’s what the Denmark and the US are doing now,” he said.