VIII. Defence and Security in Northern Europe: A Washington View

Abstract

The US defence and security relationship with the states of Northern Europe has evolved significantly over time, transitioning from the Cold War view of those countries as the northern flank of NATO into a recognition of these states as a group of small but capable partners in post-Cold War expeditionary operations. Today, however, US engagement in Northern Europe and relationships with its allies and partners are once again changing, as the region has become a key zone of friction with Russia under President Vladimir Putin, intent on altering the European security order in Moscow’s favour. The US has accomplished much since 2014 in terms of strengthening presence and engagement in the region as well as deepening defence cooperation with Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, and others in Northern Europe. However, the US and Northern Europe must further enhance their defence and security arrangements both bilaterally and multilaterally, including within the context of NATO.