Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised Norway’s continued support for Ukraine following a meeting with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, highlighting key defense, energy, and humanitarian agreements.
Zelensky expressed gratitude for Norway’s decision to allocate 700 million dollars for the purchase of Patriot air defense systems, calling it a crucial step in strengthening Ukraine’s defenses against Russian ballistic missiles. He also thanked Norway for supplying NASAMS systems, noting their effectiveness and expressing hope for future joint production of NASAMS in Ukraine.
During the talks, the leaders discussed Ukraine’s drone production and additional investments in unmanned technologies. Zelensky urged Norway to allocate remaining Nansen Programme funds this year to support drone procurement, emphasizing that drones are essential both for defense and for pressuring Russia to end the war.
Norway has joined the PURL programme, enabling the purchase of weapons from the United States, with Ukraine aiming to secure at least one billion dollars monthly for this initiative.
The meeting also addressed energy security, with Zelensky acknowledging Norway’s critical role in ensuring stable gas supplies ahead of winter. He highlighted that last winter, cooperation with Norway helped provide heat to at least one million Ukrainian families, and he expects continued support this year as Russia targets energy infrastructure.
The leaders discussed ongoing efforts to return Ukrainian children abducted by Russia and to secure the release of captured civilians and servicemembers. Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to bringing everyone home.
Finally, the two leaders reviewed diplomatic prospects and long-term security guarantees. Norway, as part of the Coalition of the Willing, is expected to play a practical role in ensuring Ukraine’s lasting security.
“Thank you, Jonas, for your visit, your support, and such strong decisions,” Zelensky concluded.
