Danish state could face legal action over deal that gives US powers on its soil

"Since then, Donald Trump has made threats to invade Greenland, part of the kingdom of Denmark, resulting in a diplomatic crisis between the longtime allies and a deployment of soldiers to Greenland by a number of European countries. Theresa Scavenius, an independent MP, plans to sue the Danish state over the agreement on the basis that she believes it to be unconstitutional."

"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, Scavenius told the Guardian. While the agreement does not apply to Greenland, critics claim the Trump administration's statements on Greenland show the US could be willing to use force on civilians. It was essential that any constitutional matters be resolved urgently before beginning negotiations over Greenland, said Scavenius."

"Despite strong criticism from politicians and human rights experts and heightened tensions between the US and Denmark after Trump's previous push to acquire Greenland MPs voted overwhelmingly in favour of the defence agreement in June 2025. The agreement keeps US soldiers in Denmark under US jurisdiction, gives them access to Danish airbases in the Danish cities of Karup, Skrydstrup and Aalborg, and grants American soldiers and military police power"

Denmark signed a 2023 defence agreement granting the US access to Danish airbases and placing US soldiers in Denmark under US jurisdiction. The pact gives American forces access to Karup, Skrydstrup and Aalborg and extends powers to American soldiers and military police. Independent MP Theresa Scavenius plans to sue the state, arguing the law is unconstitutional because it delegates authority over Danish civilians to US governmental bodies or soldiers without the required constitutional amendment. The constitution permits sovereignty transfers only via an amendment backed by five-sixths of parliament, which this agreement lacks. Critics warn US statements about Greenland increase the risk of force and complicate talks.

Read at www.theguardian.com