Image source: topwar.ru
Danish voters will have to decide whether to join the defense policy of the European Union. The holding of a referendum on the rejection of joint defense is reportedly caused by a special military operation of Russia in Ukraine. Apparently, Denmark fears that if Ukraine is suddenly accepted into the EU, it will have to send its soldiers to directly participate in hostilities.
Currently, Denmark is the only EU member not participating in the Common Security and Defense Policy. Back in 1993, Denmark achieved exclusion from the General Security and Defense Policy.
If the Danes vote to cancel the refusal to participate in the EU defense concept, it will mean a fundamental shift in the policy of European states over the past decades. Earlier, Denmark has already decided to increase defense spending, which fits into the general trend of NATO. Before Denmark, the same decision was made by Germany.
According to Mogens Jensen, the official representative of the ruling Social Democratic Party in Denmark, the EU gives Denmark another tool to ensure defense in the eastern direction.
As you know, Denmark is one of the founders of NATO, but the United States has made it clear to Europe that it is European countries that should take care of their own security. Participation in the Common Security and Defense Policy will allow Denmark to participate in joint EU military operations, for example in Somalia, Mali and Bosnia.
The overwhelming majority in parliament recommends canceling the refusal to participate in the EU defense policy. Wednesday's vote will be the third such attempt by Danish lawmakers. Preliminary polls have shown that there are still more supporters of refusal than opponents.
Skeptical Danes claim that EU defense cooperation is hampered by bureaucracy and inefficient decision-making, and they also fear the prospect of having to contribute to a potential supranational EU army.
