On Wednesday, March 26, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha welcomed Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide and Minister of Labour and Social Inclusion Tonje Brenna to Kyiv.
The ministers discussed potential cooperation between Ukraine and Norway in energy, the gas sector, shelter construction, food security, as well as joint cultural and historical projects. Particular attention was given to implementing the Nansen Programme, expanding ongoing initiatives, and coordinating long-term plans and new Norwegian support programmes.
Andrii Sybiha emphasized the significant potential for joint projects in the defense industry and invited Norway to further increase investment in Ukraine’s arms production.
Another key topic was strengthening sanctions against Russia. The ministers reaffirmed their shared stance on maintaining and intensifying pressure on the aggressor.
"Moscow will engage in deception, not negotiations, until it feels real strength—diplomatic, military, and sanctions-based. There can be no easing of pressure while Russian aggression continues. Russia is an existential threat to Europe, and our common goal is to defend against this threat," Sybiha stressed.
The Ukrainian foreign minister called Norway one of Ukraine’s closest and most committed allies.
"Norwegian aid this year will amount to around $8 billion, making it one of the leading supporters of Ukraine. This solidarity is felt not only at the government and parliamentary levels but also at the municipal and societal levels. We will never forget this," he emphasized.
Sybiha also briefed his Norwegian counterparts on Ukraine’s efforts toward a just peace and the outcomes of recent meetings in Saudi Arabia.
"Ukraine has proven that it is not an obstacle to peace. Now, Russia must demonstrate real willingness to end the war with concrete actions, not manipulations. Otherwise, pressure on Moscow must be increased," the minister stated.
