Denmark to bypass over 20 laws to fast-track Ukrainian rocket fuel plant
Photo: Denmark to build factory despite violating 20 environmental laws (Getty Images)
A dispute is unfolding in Denmark over the construction of a plant by the Ukrainian company Fire Point. To speed up the project, the government has decided to bypass more than 20 laws and regulations, according to the DR.
With the new administration, the Danish government gained broad powers that allow it to ignore these laws for the construction of a Ukrainian weapons manufacturing plant in Skrydstrup.
Under a new law, the government, led by Minister of Defense Troels Lund Poulsen, can override other laws and regulations. It can also limit citizens' rights to file complaints if the project serves important national defense objectives or civil emergency needs.
Fire Point plans to build a plant producing solid rocket fuel, a critical component for some of Ukraine's most powerful missiles.
To accelerate the plant's launch, more than 20 different rules and laws will be disregarded.
This is detailed in a draft executive order sent for consultation by the Danish Business Authority.
Experts in administrative law have expressed concern. Michael Gøtze, a professor at Copenhagen University, said this practice of "departing from the rule of law" raises questions about whether it will become the norm or remain an exceptional case.
What the law allows
The new measure allows the government to deviate from other legislative acts, including:
- The Environmental Act;
- The Planning Act;
- The Nature Conservation Act.
It also allows expropriation for construction projects.
Additionally, the law simplifies the establishment of plants by Ukrainian weapons manufacturers and facilitates the construction of military barracks. It is set to remain in effect until the end of 2028.
The law was supported by the SVM government, the Danish Democrats, the Socialist People's Party (SF), the Liberal Alliance, the Conservatives, the Danish People's Party (DF), and the Danish Social Democrats.
Denmark's aid to Ukraine
Since the first weeks of Russia's full-scale invasion, Denmark has provided comprehensive support to Ukraine.
In May, the Danish government announced a new military aid package worth more than 4 billion Danish kroner, roughly €536 million.
In April, Denmark unveiled another defense package for Ukraine totaling 6.7 billion Danish kroner, or about $995 million.
Reports said the funds would be distributed from 2025 to 2027. The package includes air defense systems, artillery, and financial support for the Ukrainian Air Force.
Earlier, in March, the Danish Ministry of Defense announced plans to invest about €40 million in a special innovation fund. It aims to strengthen Ukraine's technological capabilities for modern warfare.
On September 13, it was reported that Denmark would provide an additional $375 million for Ukraine's reconstruction.
