UK and Norway boost defense ties near Russia
UK Defence Secretary John Healey met with Norwegian Defence Minister Tore Sandvik near Norway's border with Russia to strengthen defense ties amid escalating European security concerns. The visit included a snowmobile patrol along the Pasvik River, which demarcates the Norwegian-Russian border, allowing Healey to observe the proximity of Russia's Kola Peninsula, home to significant military installations.
During the visit, Healey emphasized the interconnectedness of security in Ukraine and the High North, stating, "The security of Ukraine and the security in the high north are both connected." He highlighted the UK's commitment to regional stability, noting that 17 Royal Navy vessels had operated in Norwegian waters over the past year.
The discussions also addressed the strategic challenges posed by Russia's military activities in the region, including the deployment of Yasen-class submarines equipped with long-range hypersonic Tsirkon cruise missiles. These developments are of particular concern for NATO's maritime operations in the Norwegian and North Seas.
Healey's visit coincided with broader European security discussions, as the US and Russia engaged in talks to negotiate peace in Ukraine, excluding both Ukraine and European nations from the negotiations. This situation has prompted European leaders to consider increasing defense spending and reassessing their security strategies.
Additionally, Healey expressed interest in Norway's conscription system during interactions with Norwegian soldiers undergoing national service, indicating potential considerations for UK defense policy.
Ukraine and European governments were not invited to the Saudi capital, which magnified their concern that Russia and the United States might cut a deal that ignores their vital security interests.
Less than a month into his presidency, U.S. President Donald Trump has upended U.S. policy on Ukraine and Russia, ending Washington's bid to isolate Russia over its invasion of Ukraine with a Trump-Putin phone call and talks between senior U.S. and Russian officials.
