The Norwegian government has decided to allow the direct sale of weapons and defense-related products from its defense industry to Ukraine. This change in policy came into effect on January 1, 2024. According to the government's announcement, the support for Ukraine is deemed important for Norwegian and European security in the extraordinary security situation caused by Russia's aggressive war.

The Norwegian government's portal provides information on this matter. The announcement states that this change in the policy of the Norwegian government took effect on January 1, 2024. According to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway, Espen Barth Eide, supporting Ukraine is crucial for Norwegian and European security.

"In an extraordinary security situation arising from Russia's aggressive war, it is extremely important that we continue to support Ukraine. We must plan for the possibility that... the war may continue. Therefore, the government has decided to allow direct sales of weapons and defense products from the Norwegian defense industry to Ukraine," he stated.

As mentioned in the announcement, under the condition that the export meets the requirements for verified needs and end-user control, the government has decided to permit the direct sale of weapons and defense products from the Norwegian defense industry to Ukraine.

"This change means that we are safeguarding the fundamental interests of defense and security policy in Norway together with our allies. The government is using a range of tools to contribute to the crucial role of the defense industry in the current security policy situation," noted the Minister of Defense of the country, Bjørn Arild Gram.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Norway emphasizes that export licenses for direct sales will only be granted on an individual basis and will be thoroughly assessed. Control will continue within strict and responsible frameworks, following Norwegian rules for export control.