Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine, Serhii Boiev, met with Jon Fredriksen, Director of the Security Policy Department of Norway’s Foreign Ministry, to discuss the current security situation and Ukraine’s critical needs for 2025.
The discussion focused on global geopolitical challenges and Europe’s security landscape. The Norwegian side acknowledged the necessity for European nations to allocate more resources to defense and expand their defense industries.
Boiev highlighted "Ukraine’s growing defense industry, valued at $35 billion, with key production areas including drones, ammunition, and missiles. However, Ukraine still requires specific weapon supplies from its partners, emphasizing the need for Europe’s defense sector to scale up."
Ukraine shared frontline updates and intelligence on the aggressor state’s plans, facilitating joint strategic planning for defense projects, including co-production initiatives.
Boiev outlined Ukraine’s most pressing needs: interceptor missiles for air defense systems, ammunition, heavy armored vehicles, and defense industry investments. The formation and equipping of the Nordic-Baltic Brigade also remain a priority.
Additionally, Boiev briefed Fredriksen on the initial outcomes of the NATO-Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training, and Education Center (JATEC) in Poland, which enhances military training programs.
“NATO has identified Norway as a potential target of Russian aggression. Europe needs Ukraine and its experience, and it must integrate this expertise while strengthening joint defense capabilities,” Fredriksen stated.
