President Donald Trump meets today with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre at the White House to discuss a broad range of pressing international issues, including transatlantic security, the war in Ukraine, NATO commitments, and growing tensions over new U.S. tariffs on Norwegian imports. The high-level diplomatic visit includes Norway’s Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg, who joins the talks to address economic concerns sparked by Trump’s recent trade moves.
The meeting comes just days after Trump announced a 15% tariff on all Norwegian imports, a surprise move that drew sharp criticism from officials in Oslo. Following backlash from U.S. allies and economic advisers, Trump later lowers the tariff rate to 10%, but the move continues to generate concern among Norwegian business leaders and European trade partners who fear a shift toward more protectionist U.S. economic policy.
In his public remarks ahead of the meeting, Trump defends the tariff decision as part of a broader strategy to rebalance trade relationships and protect American industries. “We love our relationship with Norway,” Trump says. “But we have to make sure our trade deals work for American workers and businesses.”
Prime Minister Støre, known for his measured diplomatic style, acknowledges the need for honest dialogue but emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong economic and defense ties. “We are committed to an open and fair trading system and to cooperation with the United States on matters of global security,” Støre tells reporters. “This meeting is an opportunity to address our differences while reinforcing the deep partnership between our nations.”
Trade tensions, however, are only one part of the agenda. The leaders also discuss ongoing support for Ukraine as it continues to battle Russian aggression. Norway, a NATO ally and a significant donor to Ukraine, has increased its defense spending and humanitarian assistance over the past year. Trump, who has faced criticism from within NATO for wavering on alliance commitments, reiterates his stance that all NATO members must contribute more toward collective defense, but expresses appreciation for Norway’s recent military investments.
The meeting also touches on Arctic security, energy cooperation, and strategies for countering Russian influence in Europe. With melting ice caps opening new geopolitical routes and resources in the Arctic region, both nations acknowledge the need for coordination on environmental policy and maritime security.
This is the first formal bilateral meeting between Trump and Støre since Trump resumed the presidency. Støre, who has served as Norway’s prime minister since 2021, seeks to balance economic diplomacy with firm advocacy for multilateralism and climate action. His finance minister, Jens Stoltenberg—also the former NATO Secretary General—brings a seasoned voice to the discussions, particularly on military coordination and alliance solidarity.
As the meeting concludes, White House officials describe the dialogue as “constructive” and confirm that follow-up discussions between trade officials are scheduled in the coming weeks to resolve tariff-related disputes. Trump’s administration, meanwhile, frames the meeting as a reaffirmation of American leadership on the world stage and a continuation of his “America First” approach, albeit with space for strategic alliances.
Norwegian officials express cautious optimism that progress can be made on both the economic and security fronts. “Our countries share values, interests, and history,” Støre says. “We will keep working together—even when we disagree—to uphold the principles of peace, prosperity, and democracy.”
