Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umerov participated in the Nordic-Baltic 8 meeting, where the defense ministers of Norway, Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania presented new initiatives to support Ukraine. Following the meeting, the participating countries confirmed their strategic commitments:
- Sweden is preparing a large new military aid package, which includes strengthening Ukraine's air defense. Deliveries are planned for this year.
- Norway is allocating €7.8 billion in 2025 – one of the largest aid budgets for Ukraine. The funds will be directed towards strengthening maritime and air defense capabilities, as well as training military personnel within the "Nordic-Baltic Brigade." Additional investments in Ukraine's defense industry are also planned.
- Lithuania is working on enhancing Ukraine's air defense system, investing in the defense-industrial complex, and contributing to the "Czech initiative." The priority remains the supply of artillery shells.
- Latvia is focused on equipping Ukrainian Armed Forces units, supplying ammunition, and developing cooperation in the defense industry.
- Iceland is involved in investments in Ukraine's defense-industrial complex within the framework of the "Danish model" and is assisting in the training of the "Nordic-Baltic Brigade."
- Finland is working on supplying artillery shells and preparing a new military aid package.
- Estonia is preparing new ammunition supplies and is ready to contribute to the training of the "Nordic-Baltic Brigade."
- Denmark is considering additional investments in Ukraine's defense industry.
"Northern and Baltic countries remain among our most dedicated allies. They are not only increasing military aid but also actively supporting the development of our defense industry," emphasized Rustem Umerov.
The Ukrainian Defense Minister thanked the partners for their determination and support, noting that further strengthening security cooperation is crucial for the stability of the entire European continent.
