Denmark has successfully concluded a defense agreement with the United States, permitting the deployment of US troops and military equipment on Danish territory, as announced by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.

According to official statements from Prime Minister Frederiksen, a highly anticipated 10-year defense pact is set to be officially signed later this week. The commencement of this significant agreement is expected to take place approximately a year from now. This groundbreaking development underscores the commitment of the involved parties to bolstering their defense capabilities and fostering regional security.

This development follows similar agreements signed by Washington with Sweden and Finland earlier in the month. Remarkably, the impending deal will mark the end of a 70-year prohibition on the deployment of foreign troops within Denmark.

During a press conference, Prime Minister Frederiksen affirmed, "This means that American soldiers and equipment can be permanently stationed on Danish soil." She emphasized that the agreement signifies a joint commitment between Denmark and its ally, the United States, to assume greater responsibility for Danish security, deeming it a necessity.

"The goal is: we must ensure peace not only now, but for the generations that come after us," Frederiksen added. Denmark's authorities clarified that the agreement does not permit the placement of nuclear weapons in the country. However, it grants access to three Danish air bases for US troops.

Despite its strategic implications, the agreement faces staunch opposition from Enhedslisten, a political party in the Danish parliament, along with some other political groups. Critics argue that the deal compromises Denmark's sovereignty and potentially poses risks to national security.

The decision to deepen security ties with the United States aligns with a broader initiative by the U.S. to secure its military presence in the Nordic and Baltic regions, as reported by local media. The move by Denmark, Sweden, and Finland to strengthen security cooperation comes in response to the war in Ukraine and escalating tensions with Russia.