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Portugal Prosecutors Open Probe Into U.S. Lajes Base Flights

By Drooid · Oct 4, 2026, 6:04 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Portugal’s prosecutors opened a probe into the government’s authorization of U.S. use of Lajes Air Base.
The investigation follows a complaint filed by members of the Left Bloc party.
Portugal authorized several U.S. transit flights through Lajes despite the 1951 treaty requiring approval if hostilities start.
Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel said the authorization complied with international law after defensive assurances.

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Story summary

Portugal’s prosecutors opened a probe into the government’s authorization of U.S. use of Lajes Air Base.
The investigation follows a complaint filed by members of the Left Bloc party.
Portugal authorized several U.S. transit flights through Lajes despite the 1951 treaty requiring approval if hostilities start.
Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel said the authorization complied with international law after defensive assurances.