This thesis examines the role that NATO and the United States play in the security policies of Finland, Norway, and Sweden, and Russia’s views on the activities of the Alliance and the United States along its northern flank. An analysis of the foreign and security policies of Finland, Norway, and Sweden indicates that these three countries view Russian activities in the region as a security threat. The thesis finds that NATO and the United States play a large role in the security calculations of Finland, Norway, and Sweden, while Russia considers the Alliance and the United States as threats to its national security. The thesis encompasses economic and political consideration; the historical context between Russia and Finland, Norway, and Sweden; and the current security policies of all four countries. It also analyzes NATO considerations, bilateral relations, and potential regional security implications. This thesis recommends that Norway continue to seek an increase in NATO activity in the region, while Finland and Sweden should seek NATO membership unless they are willing to combat potential Russian aggression alone.

Subjects: Finland; Norway; Russia; Soviet Union; Sweden; United States; North Atlantic Treaty Organization; European Union; Article 5; collective defense; security; cooperation; bilateral; Partnership for Peace; Arctic Council; United Nations; northern flank; military reform; military modernization; Arctic; North Atlantic; Baltic Sea region