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The Norwegian Defence Minister, Tore Sandvik, has expressed confidence that the United States remains committed to Europe’s defence, stating that the continent must take on a bigger share of the costs of defending itself if Washington is to live up to its security commitments....CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>
American support for European defence has reportedly been in question in recent times, as U.S. President Donald Trump has said NATO countries must increase defence spending to 5% of GDP, up from the current 2% goal, adding that the U.S. may not defend those lagging behind.
Sandvik’s position on Ukraine as it struggles against the Russian invasion is also a concern.
However, Norway, a founding member of NATO, maintains that U.S. support for Europe remains steadfast.
“We are not experiencing a collapse of U.S. support. We have had it confirmed by both Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and by Trump himself to several European leaders that the U.S. stands behind Article 5.
“For those who fear that the U.S. will not be there when needed, the answer is: increased responsibility for your own security. Europe must take a bigger share of responsibility so that the U.S. lives up to its commitments,” he said.
Sandvik was speaking before news emerged that top Trump administration officials had disparaged Europe in a messaging group chat that accidentally included a journalist.
It was gathered that from its side of the border with Russia, Norway monitors military installations on the Kola Peninsula, including locations where Russia keeps some of its intercontinental nuclear missiles.
“We have a good dialogue with the Americans about this collaboration, which is extremely important for them,” Sandvik added…CONTINUE READING>>
