The EI Podcast How a Second Cold War could have been averted
Feb 28, 2025
Mary Elise Sarotte, a renowned historian specializing in US-Russia relations, discusses the intricate dynamics of NATO's expansion in the 1990s. She examines how this expansion may have contributed to current geopolitical tensions, particularly under Vladimir Putin's leadership. Sarotte critically reflects on the historical miscalculations that have shaped U.S.-Russia relations since the Cold War. She offers insights into the strategic challenges NATO faces today, especially regarding the aspirations of Finland and Sweden amidst rising tensions with Russia.
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Enlargement Was Justified But Flawed
- NATO enlargement in the 1990s was a justifiable geopolitical response but carried both benefits and costs.
- The manner of implementation unnecessarily increased tensions with Russia and worsened relations.
1999 Baltic Push Amid Kosovo Tensions
- In 1999 President Clinton publicly welcomed Baltic interest in full NATO membership amid the Kosovo conflict.
- That move opened the path to the 2004 'Big Bang' expansion and inflamed Russian sensitivities.
Scandinavian Caution Was Overlooked
- Scandinavians counseled limited implementations to manage frictions with Moscow, like bans on foreign troops in peacetime.
- Washington rejected partial measures and opted for unconditional membership instead.
