Pentagon sends Denmark questionnaire on US military presence
Monday 7th September 2026 on 21:30 in
Denmark
Denmark has received a written questionnaire from the Pentagon as part of a US review of its military presence in Europe, DR reports. The answers could have significant security and military policy implications.
The Danish Ministry of Defence confirmed that the questionnaire had arrived from the United States as part of the Europe Force Posture Review.
The review is examining how many US troops and weapons should remain stationed in Europe, including which weapons systems, military units and capabilities could be withdrawn.
According to Reuters, which has seen parts of the questionnaire, European NATO countries are being asked whether they permit access for US bases, troops and military overflights, as well as a range of specific military questions. The Financial Times has reported that they must also describe their position on buying weapons from US companies and whether they have publicly supported Donald Trump’s foreign policy.
The Ministry of Defence has not said which questions Denmark received or whether it has responded.
US military leaders are expected to discuss the answers in a briefing within two weeks. The matter will later go to US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who will make the final decision.
Military meeting in Copenhagen
The ministry confirmed that the questionnaire is part of a shift in responsibilities, under which Europe is expected to take greater responsibility for its own security within NATO.
The United States increased its military presence in Europe after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. A congressional report said two additional brigades were sent to reinforce NATO’s combat forces. Since 2025, however, the US has begun reducing its presence, including a 5,000 troop cut in June. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said at the time that more than 80,000 US troops remained in Europe.
On September 18 and 19, defence chiefs from all 32 NATO countries will meet in Copenhagen for the alliance’s annual military chiefs’ conference. General Alexus G. Grynkewich, NATO’s top operational military commander and head of US forces in Europe, is also due to attend. NATO said the buildup of the alliance’s collective deterrence and defence will be among the topics discussed.