Consider This from NPR

How A Possible NATO Expansion Shows Russia's Plans are Backfiring

May 20, 2022

Historian Mary Elise Sarotte, author of "Not One Inch," dives into the historical context of NATO expansion and its implications for Russia. She discusses how President Putin’s invasion of Ukraine has ironically driven Finland and Sweden towards NATO membership. The conversation highlights the shifting geopolitical dynamics in the Arctic and the intricate diplomatic maneuvers necessary to address tensions with Russia. Sarotte’s insights reveal how past decisions are shaping present alliances and complicating regional security.

14:58

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Mary Elise Sarotte

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Episode notes

Intro

2min

Shifting Alliances: NATO Expansion Amidst Russian Aggression

5min

Navigating Diplomatic Waters: NATO, Russia, and Finland's Strategic Moves

2min

Navigating NATO Membership: Finland's Complex Decision-Making

2min

NATO's Eastward Expansion and Its Impact on Russia

7min

Russian President Vladimir Putin has used possible NATO expansion to justify invading Ukraine. Now, that invasion might expand the alliance. Finland and Sweden, both formerly neutral Russian neighbors, are applying for membership.

NPR's Steve Inskeep speaks with Finland's ambassador to the U.S., Mikko Hautala, about the stakes of his country's bid to join.

NPR's Emily Feng also talks to historian Mary Elise Sarotte about how we reached this impasse between NATO and Russia.

You can also hear — and see — more on how war games and Russia's invasion of Ukraine are impacting life in Norway from NPR's Quil Lawrence here.

In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news segment to help you make sense of what's going on in your community.

Email us at considerthis@npr.org.

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