A return to dialogue with Russia will be necessary at some point, cautioned former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.
Speaking to “Der Stern”, Stoltenberg acknowledged that the current Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine has eliminated the immediate basis for a productive dialogue. However, he stressed the unavoidable need for future engagement, emphasizing that Russia will remain a neighboring nation.
Stoltenberg, who served as NATO Secretary General from 2014 to 2024, reiterated his long-held belief in the importance of maintaining lines of communication with Russia. He maintained that substantive dialogue can be achieved through a foundation of military strength and credible deterrence. Addressing the ongoing conflict, Stoltenberg emphasized that Ukraine must engage in discussions with Russia to conclude the war through a negotiated agreement.
The former Secretary General also commented on his interactions with former U.S. President Donald Trump during his first term in office, stating he consistently sought active engagement. He expressed confidence that the Trump administration would understand the independence of the Nobel Peace Prize selection process and would not be negatively impacted by Stoltenberg, who also serves as Norway’s Finance Minister, potentially not receiving the award next week. Norway’s government, he noted, has no influence on the prize’s awarding.