“The balancing act between deterrence, reassurance and engagement that has been defining for Norway-Russia relations, is now under pressure and difficult, if not impossible to pursue in the current context. This approach has been determined by four structural factors. First, the geographical proximity and a long common border, the asymmetry of the relationship with regard to size and military power. Third, the perception of Russia as frenemy, a regional partner, but also a threat. And fourth, the fact that both countries are energy producers and exporters. While geography and size are undeniable facts, the other two factors may change. And recently the perception of Russia has changed dramatically due to the Russian unprovoked innovation of Ukraine.”
In this video, Pernille Rieker and Jakub Godzimirski, both Research Professors at the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI), discuss the Norwegian reaction to Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression in Ukraine. In examining the four factors determining Norway’s policy towards Russia, they explore how these are affected by Russia’s actions, and how the Norwegian response follows from the current geopolitical context.
TEPSA Explainers are short videos elaborating on key issues in European affairs according to the expertise of the contributor. This TEPSA Explainer is linked to the upcoming publication of TEPSA’s new book: “EU-Russia Relations and the Future of Europe: Views from the Capitals”, which will focus on the EU’s policy towards Russia as expressed in the EU27 Member States and beyond, and is edited by Michael Kaeding, Johannes Pollak, and Paul Schmidt. Newly published via Springer.
