Iver B. Neumann: The U.S. is Creating Uncertainty in Europe and Exploiting Ukraine
Iver B. Neumann, Director of the Fridtjof Nansen Institute, has recently commented on a series of international developments related to U.S. foreign policy, its relationship with Europe, and the war in Ukraine. Through Norwegian media interviews, he has offered critical perspectives on the unfolding situation.
The Future of NATO and European Security
Neumann argues that NATO’s future is increasingly uncertain, particularly in light of Donald Trump’s stance on the alliance and his approach to diplomacy. Speaking to NRK, Neumann suggests that this could mark the beginning of the end for NATO.
'Trump is acting like great powers did before World War II – negotiating directly with each other while leaving small states behind.'
He believes this development may push Europe to become more self-reliant. In an op-ed for Aftenposten, he advocates for Norway to reconsider EU membership as part of its security strategy.
U.S.-Ukraine Mineral Deal: A Bad Deal for Kyiv
In recent days, a mineral deal has been struck between the U.S. and Ukraine. Neumann contends that the agreement overwhelmingly benefits the U.S. while leaving Ukraine in a weak bargaining position:
'This deal breaks with a long tradition of the U.S. assisting in post-war reconstruction. Now, it’s businessman Trump who sees an economic opportunity in striking a country while it’s down.'
He further argues that the deal contributes to a new form of great-power partitioning:
'Having Americans on the ground extracting minerals can serve as a form of hostage-taking mechanism, ensuring U.S. engagement. But the cost is that the U.S. and Russia effectively carve up the country, each taking their share.'
Great-Power Diplomacy at Ukraine’s Expense
Neumann sees U.S. policy towards Ukraine as reminiscent of historical instances where great powers decided the fate of small states without their involvement:
'Great powers decide over the heads of others. What’s next? Between Greenland and Ukraine, there are numerous small resource-rich states – including Norway. We have oil and gas. The U.S. could certainly see value in the Troll field, for instance. This is not a reassuring situation.'
The Troll field is Norway’s largest offshore gas field, supplying a significant portion of Europe’s energy needs.
Stark Warning
The future of Ukraine and European security remains uncertain, but Neumann emphasizes that Norway must prepare for a world where dependence on the U.S. diminishes:
'If Europe fails to organize and take action, we could see Ukraine radicalized and a world order where great powers dictate terms to the rest of the world, with smaller states left without influence.'
Neumann’s analysis serves as a clear warning: Norway and Europe must explore new strategies to secure themselves in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical landscape.
(+47) 47480680
post@fni.no