The US election creates uncertainty for NATO and Europe
On November 6, the world will know who will be the next president of the United States. The election is being followed closely by politicians and experts all over the world, including in Norway. Many are concerned about how the result will affect military cooperation in NATO and security in Europe.
The US plays a central role in NATO. Today, there are between 25,000 and 40,000 American soldiers stationed at various bases around Europe. These forces are an important part of European defense and contribute to stability in the region.
There is great tension regarding what a new presidential term for Donald Trump would mean for the alliance. In the past, Trump has been critical of NATO and has questioned the US's commitments to its allies. Many European leaders therefore fear that the US could reduce its military engagement in Europe if he wins the election.
For Norway, which is a NATO country with a long border with Russia in the north, the relationship with the US is very important. A change in American foreign policy could force European countries to take more responsibility for their own defense. There is therefore a broad consensus that election day in November will be one of the most important political events of the year.