The Norwegian and Swedish Chiefs of Defence emphasise that Nordic unity within NATO strengthens regional security. At the same time, they stress that continued support for Ukraine remains essential.
This article was produced by the Norwegian Armed Forces’ Department of Strategic Communication. Photo: Torbjørn Kjosvold / Norwegian Armed Forces.
With Sweden and Finland now members of NATO, the Nordic region is united under the Alliance’s command structure in the north. Norway’s Chief of Defence, Eirik Kristoffersen, says this represents a clear improvement in Norwegian security and marks a new level of binding military cooperation in the region.
Sweden’s Supreme Commander, Michael Claesson, describes the current security environment as uncertain, but also points to developments that give him reason for optimism.
A more optimistic outlook
Both Chiefs of Defence spoke during the 75th anniversary of the Norwegian organisation Folk og Forsvar (People and Defence). In their speeches, they highlighted strong Nordic cooperation and the importance of continued support for Ukraine.
“I have previously spoken about ‘security in uncertain times’. But something has changed since then: NATO itself has changed. Europe is investing more in defence, and Sweden and Finland are now NATO members. All of this makes me more optimistic,” Kristoffersen said.
He emphasised that unity remains the foundation of the Alliance.
“President Putin underestimated Western unity when he launched his attack on Ukraine.”
Facing Russia
Michael Claesson pointed to what he considers one of the most enduring factors shaping European security.
“There is one constant I have observed since I began my military career in the early 1980s. It is called Russia,” he said.
Within NATO, certain countries are referred to as “frontline nations” — states that share borders with Russia. Claesson noted that Sweden increasingly sees itself in this category, despite not sharing a land border with Russia.
“We encounter Russia every day — at sea and in the air,” he said.
He also warned against losing focus on the primary strategic challenge.
“My problem is not in the White House. It is in the Kremlin.”
Continued support for Ukraine
The Norwegian and Swedish Chiefs of Defence are united in their assessment of the importance of supporting Ukraine. They stress that Russia’s broader ambitions regarding the international order will remain regardless of how the war develops.
“Our commitment to spending 3.5 per cent of GDP on defence will provide adequate defence capability. But if Russia prevails in Ukraine, 3.5 per cent will not be enough,” Kristoffersen warned.
Greater responsibility for European defence
Both defence leaders also emphasised that Europe must assume significantly greater responsibility for its own security.
“This is a new NATO and a new strategic reality, and we are seeing a shift in the United States’ focus. Europe must take far greater responsibility for its own defence. Why should the United States carry such a large share of the cost when we ourselves have not done enough? We must take responsibility,” Claesson said.
Kristoffersen added that Sweden’s and Finland’s NATO membership has fundamentally changed how Norway and the Nordic countries approach defence cooperation.
“We are good friends and allies. But allies are more than friends — an alliance is a commitment. Our borders are no longer barriers,” he said.
“Nordic gold”
Both Chiefs of Defence highlighted the deep trust between the Nordic countries as a unique strategic advantage.
“The trust we share can be called ‘Nordic gold’. It is immensely valuable. It is about safeguarding unity, protecting our populations and creating security for future generations,” Claesson said.
State Secretary Andreas Flåm also addressed the anniversary event. In his remarks, he drew parallels between Norway’s resistance movement during the Second World War and today’s war in Ukraine, emphasising the importance of public resilience and total defence.
“In Norway, we must maintain a strong defence. But it is equally important to have a population that understands why it matters. Defence is about the will to stand together when required. Every one of us has a role to play,” Flåm said.