In Oslo, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Prime Minister of Norway Jonas Gahr Støre.
The President expressed his gratitude to Norway for its significant defense and financial support, assistance to Ukraine’s energy sector, and especially for the recent decision to increase its support for Ukraine to nearly $8 billion this year.
"We have managed to preserve our independence, and now, together with all of Europe, we are working on restoring peace and guaranteeing the security we so vitally need. I hope Norway’s role in this joint effort with all our partners will remain substantial," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
During the meeting, the parties discussed specific measures to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities, including enhancing air defense, providing ammunition for Ukrainian troops, investing in Ukraine’s defense industry, and developing joint production."I am confident that Europe now needs a new wave of industrial and technological development – so that the continent has everything necessary for its defense and so that Europe becomes more independent and stronger in global competition," the President stated.
The President also invited Norway to take on a more active role in security coalitions, particularly in air defense and other technological initiatives, as well as in drone production.
Jonas Gahr Støre emphasized the importance of Ukraine’s cooperation with the U.S., European nations, and NATO in achieving a just peace. He also confirmed that Norway will strengthen its defense support for Ukraine.
"The tripling of Norway’s defense support, which was unanimously approved by our parliament, will be immediately transformed into artillery, ammunition, drones, and investments in Ukraine’s domestic production base," the Norwegian Prime Minister stated.