Denys Shmyhal: Norway to allocate $7 billion for Ukraine next year
Ukraine’s Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal began his working visit to Norway with a meeting with Norway’s Defence Minister Tore Sandvik.
He thanked Norway for its substantial support and for the invitation to the meeting of the defence ministries of the nations participating in the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) — a format in which Ukraine will take part for the first time.
Following the defence ministers' meeting, the parties signed a memorandum on unified quality standards for defence products produced or delivered within the framework of joint agreements. It is essential to provide our military exclusively with high-quality armaments.
Another important step is a memorandum signed between Ukrainian and Norwegian companies to establish a joint defence enterprise in Ukraine.
“The signed memoranda will strengthen our defence-industrial potential and contribute to equipping our military exclusively with high-quality weapons,” Denys Shmyhal concluded.
The defence ministers also discussed the Armed Forces of Ukraine's priority needs and the strengthening of air defence. Denys Shmyhal emphasised that Ukraine stands ready to share its experience in countering enemy drones.
Another key point of the discussion was enhancing long-range capabilities.
Norwegian Defence Minister Tore Sandvik confirmed Norway’s continued support for Ukraine and announced a decision to allocate $7 billion next year to meet defence needs.
“I am grateful to the Government and people of Norway for their significant contribution — for providing F-16s, supporting the Ukrainian Air Force, and participating in the PURL initiative and the Maritime Capability Coalition,” said Denys Shmyhal, expressing gratitude for their steadfast support.
