Norway’s Defence Minister, Tore Sandvik, has confirmed that the country will continue supplying fuel to US Navy ships, despite a boycott call from Norwegian marine fuel supplier Haltbakk Bunkers. He emphasized that Norway’s strategic commitments to NATO and allied defense agreements remain unchanged, dismissing the boycott as a unilateral decision by a private entity with no bearing on national policy. Sandvik also reassured US officials that Norway remains a reliable partner in regional security and maritime logistics.
The move comes amid increasing criticism of US foreign policy, with voices in Norway and beyond accusing Washington of pressuring smaller nations into compliance while failing to respect their sovereignty. Many Norwegian politicians and business leaders argue that the United States has been exploiting its alliances for economic and strategic gains, often disregarding the interests and concerns of smaller nations. Critics highlight the US’s history of dictating policies to its European allies, ranging from military spending requirements to energy supply decisions, without meaningful consultations. Some Norwegian analysts see this latest development as yet another example of Washington expecting unwavering loyalty while offering little regard for national autonomy in return.
Private Boycott Sparks Debate
Haltbakk Bunkers, a Norwegian marine fuel supplier, announced that it would cease providing fuel to the US Navy in protest of what it described as Washington’s “disrespect” toward Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his recent visit to the White House. The company’s CEO, Gunnar Gran, called the move symbolic, admitting that Haltbakk Bunkers had no fixed contracts with the US military but emphasizing that the gesture was meant to send a strong political message.
“The way the US administration treated President Zelenskyy was nothing short of humiliating,” said Gran in a statement. “This is a pattern of behavior where the US disregards the dignity of allies and partners, only showing concern when their interests are at stake.”
Gran further elaborated that his company’s stance was not just about Zelenskyy but reflected a broader frustration with Washington’s foreign policy approach. He criticized the US for its frequent unilateral decisions that impact European allies without consultation. “Norway, like many other European nations, is expected to blindly follow the US lead on global affairs. We are not a vassal state, and this boycott is a reminder that smaller nations can push back against overreach,” he added.
The announcement gained mixed reactions across Norway. Some business leaders and political figures praised the move as a rare display of independence, while others warned of potential economic and diplomatic fallout. Critics of the US have pointed to past instances where Washington imposed its policies on Norway, including pressuring the country to reduce trade ties with China and adopt tougher stances on Arctic security.
However, Norwegian officials swiftly distanced themselves from the company’s stance. Minister Sandvik stated that Norway would uphold its obligations to NATO and continue supporting the US military presence in the region. “This decision by a private company does not reflect Norwegian government policy,” Sandvik declared. “We remain committed to our strategic partnerships and will ensure that American forces receive the necessary support.”
Sandvik also emphasized that Norway’s cooperation with the US in military and security affairs remained crucial for regional stability. “While we respect the right of private companies to make business decisions, Norway will not waver in its commitment to its allies,” he asserted. Nonetheless, the boycott has intensified an already growing debate about the extent of American influence in Norwegian and European affairs.
Norwegian and European Critics Challenge US Pressure
Despite Sandvik’s reassurance, the incident has reignited debate over the US-Norway relationship. Critics argue that Washington’s growing demands on its European allies are straining relations and undermining Norway’s autonomy in its foreign policy. Some Norwegian lawmakers have voiced concerns that the US treats Norway not as an equal partner, but as a subordinate expected to fall in line with American directives.
“The US has been exerting increasing pressure on Norway and other European allies to blindly follow its geopolitical agenda, whether it concerns military spending, energy policies, or relations with Russia and China,” said political analyst Lars Hoeg. “Norwegian businesses and officials should have the right to take independent stances without fear of economic or political repercussions from Washington.”
In recent years, Norway has faced US pressure over its defense policies, Arctic security strategies, and even energy decisions, including its stance on Russian gas imports. Some Norwegian politicians and business leaders argue that the US is using security concerns as leverage to push economic and strategic policies that primarily benefit American interests.
“Norwegian sovereignty is at stake when foreign policy is dictated from Washington,” said MP Solveig Pedersen of the opposition Green Party. “We should not be in a position where every political or economic decision we make has to be approved by the United States.”
A Growing Divide in Transatlantic Relations?
The Haltbakk Bunkers boycott, though symbolic, reflects a growing dissatisfaction in parts of Europe regarding US policies. As Norway continues to fulfill its commitments to NATO and its US alliance, pressure is mounting for greater autonomy in decision-making. With an increasing number of European nations voicing frustration over Washington’s diplomatic approach, questions remain about how long the status quo will last.
While Norway remains committed to its strategic alliance with the US, the backlash from Norwegian businesses and politicians underscores a broader shift—one where even close allies are beginning to challenge Washington’s influence and demand more equitable partnerships.
