Norway’s Defence Minister, Tore O. Sandvik, affirmed that the United States remains committed to European defence, but emphasized that Europe must contribute more financially to ensure the U.S. can uphold its security commitments.
In an interview on Tuesday, Sandvik stressed that while American support for Europe’s defence has been questioned, particularly due to U.S. President Donald Trump’s demands for NATO countries to increase their defence spending to 5% of GDP (up from the current 2% target), he believes the U.S. remains steadfast in its support of NATO and Article 5, which guarantees collective security.
Sandvik stated that both U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and President Trump have confirmed their commitment to Europe’s defence in discussions with European leaders, reiterating that the U.S. stands behind NATO’s collective security principle. However, he also warned that Europe needs to take greater responsibility for its own security to ensure the U.S. can continue to meet its obligations.
This statement comes amid tensions over U.S. defence spending and concerns about the U.S. position on Ukraine’s struggle against Russian aggression. The recent leak of disparaging remarks by top Trump administration officials about Europe’s financial contributions to defence has added further strain, with Vice President JD Vance and Hegseth being quoted as expressing frustration over Europe’s reliance on U.S. support.
Sandvik highlighted Norway’s strategic role in NATO, especially in monitoring the North Atlantic and its proximity to Russian military installations on the Kola Peninsula. He reassured that Norway maintains a strong dialogue with the U.S. on this critical collaboration.
Norway has met the NATO 2% defence spending target and is planning to double its defence spending by 2036 to exceed at least 3% of GDP. Sandvik noted that Norway’s long-term defence plans, which began just two months ago, are already being revised due to emerging needs.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with U.S. Ambassador David Perdue on Tuesday in a meeting that underscored both the hope for improved bilateral relations and the mounting strain over critical mineral exports.
Donald Trump acknowledged his personal liking for Chinese President Xi Jinping but described him as a tough negotiator, amid ongoing disputes over tariffs and trade agreements between the U.S. and China.
Iran’s supreme leader dismissed a key U.S. demand to halt uranium enrichment but did not close the door on further negotiations, as nuclear talks continue amid rising regional tensions.
The White House congratulated South Korea on a fair election but voiced concern over potential Chinese influence as liberal candidate Lee Jae-myung assumes the presidency.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue on Tuesday, welcoming him to his post and emphasising the crucial need for dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect to navigate the current "important and critical juncture" in bilateral relations.
A U.S. district judge has temporarily blocked the deportation of the wife and five children of the suspect in a recent firebombing attack in Boulder, Colorado, citing concerns over due process and potential irreparable harm.
The ruling Fidesz party has delayed debate and voting on a controversial bill that would impose strict controls on NGOs and media receiving foreign funding, citing internal party discussions and external pressure.
The S&P 500 barely budged Wednesday as weak job and service sector data revealed the economic fallout from President Trump’s trade war tactics.
After Ukrainian drone strikes on Russia's nuclear-capable bombers, Trump and Putin held a tense phone call warning of escalation and reigniting concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
A cargo ship carrying around 800 electric vehicles caught fire off Alaska, forcing its 22 crew members to abandon the vessel amid rising concerns over maritime EV fires.
Brazil’s economy is expected to have regained momentum in the first quarter of 2025, driven by a surge in household spending and private investment, according to a Reuters poll of economists conducted from May 21–26.
As peace talks progress, voices from Yerevan, Tbilisi, and Baku reveal hopes, concerns, and expectations for a future shaped by trade, trust, and generational change in the South Caucasus.
In a major blow to one of President Donald Trump’s key economic policies, a US federal court has blocked the administration’s sweeping global tariff regime, ruling that the White House overstepped its constitutional authority.
A bridge collapse in the Vygonichsky district of Russia’s Bryansk region, near the Ukrainian border, caused a train derailment and a traffic accident early Sunday, killing at least seven people and leaving 30 injured, according to emergency services.
Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) has confirmed it carried out a third targeted attack against the Crimean Bridge, also known as the Kerch Bridge, early Tuesday morning, marking a new escalation in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
The Philippines has inked a $700 million agreement with South Korea's KAI to acquire 12 advanced FA-50 fighter jets by 2030, enhancing its military capabilities amid regional tensions.
The Trump administration may roll out a $1,000 fee to fast-track visa interviews, raising legal concerns from within the State Department.
A U.S. district judge has temporarily blocked the deportation of the wife and five children of the suspect in a recent firebombing attack in Boulder, Colorado, citing concerns over due process and potential irreparable harm.
The ruling Fidesz party has delayed debate and voting on a controversial bill that would impose strict controls on NGOs and media receiving foreign funding, citing internal party discussions and external pressure.
After Ukrainian drone strikes on Russia's nuclear-capable bombers, Trump and Putin held a tense phone call warning of escalation and reigniting concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
A U.S. district judge has temporarily blocked the deportation of the wife and five children of the suspect in a recent firebombing attack in Boulder, Colorado, citing concerns over due process and potential irreparable harm.
The ruling Fidesz party has delayed debate and voting on a controversial bill that would impose strict controls on NGOs and media receiving foreign funding, citing internal party discussions and external pressure.
The S&P 500 barely budged Wednesday as weak job and service sector data revealed the economic fallout from President Trump’s trade war tactics.
After Ukrainian drone strikes on Russia's nuclear-capable bombers, Trump and Putin held a tense phone call warning of escalation and reigniting concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
A cargo ship carrying around 800 electric vehicles caught fire off Alaska, forcing its 22 crew members to abandon the vessel amid rising concerns over maritime EV fires.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment