How To Academy Podcast Jens Stoltenberg - Leading NATO in a Time of War
13 snips
Oct 28, 2025 
Jens Stoltenberg, Former Secretary General of NATO and Prime Minister of Norway, shares his insights from a decade of leadership. He discusses NATO's evolution during conflicts, including the urgency of the Ukraine invasion and the implications of Russia's aggression. Jens reflects on NATO's role in deterrence, the alliance’s relationship with Donald Trump, and the technological challenges ahead. He champions NATO's importance for global security while remaining cautiously optimistic about the future.
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Working With Russia Before Relations Deteriorated
- Stoltenberg shares that early in his career Norway negotiated practical deals with Putin-era leaders including Barents Sea maritime delimitation.
- He used that history to push for dialogue alongside deterrence when he joined NATO.
Near Break With The US Under Trump
- Stoltenberg recalls fearing Trump might withdraw US commitment, at one point worrying NATO could 'cease to exist'.
- Negotiations led to allies increasing defense spending and Trump publicly affirming support.
Why The US Needs NATO Too
- NATO benefits US interests by pooling allied economic and military power and providing strategic geography and early warning data.
- Allies like Norway supply critical northern surveillance that strengthens US deterrence.
