Ukraine and Norway synchronise defence priorities ahead of the Ramstein-format meeting
Ukraine is cooperating with Norway to rapidly secure additional funding for the Defence Forces’ priority needs. The focus is on extended-range munitions, air defence missiles, and Ukrainian-made drones.
Ukraine’s Minister of Defence, Mykhailo Fedorov, held a conversation with Norway’s Minister of Defence, Tore Onshuus Sandvik. The parties coordinated their positions ahead of their in-person meeting at the upcoming Ramstein-format meeting.
Supporting Ukraine’s defence priorities
Mykhailo Fedorov thanked Norway for its continued and effective support for Ukraine.
Support for Ukraine’s defence priorities was the central topic of the conversation. The Defence Forces of Ukraine are gradually gaining the initiative, and it is important to preserve it by maintaining pressure on russia and encouraging conditions for a just peace.
Ukraine is successfully implementing the strategy it has shared with partners. One of the key efforts on the ground is the ‘Logistics Lockdown’ operation, aimed at systematically destroying russian logistics throughout the enemy’s operational depth.
At the same time, ballistic missiles remain the primary challenge in the air domain. This is why strengthening air defence and developing counter-ballistic solutions remain a priority.
Additional support before European loan funds become available
Ukraine expects European loan funds to become available at the end of June. Until then, it is critical not to lose momentum in delivering capabilities that produce results on the battlefield.
Mykhailo Fedorov proposed that the Norwegian side explore options for rapidly directing funds towards the Defence Forces’ priority needs, including:
- extended-range shells under the ‘Czech initiative’;
- Patriot missiles through the JUMPSTART mechanism;
- Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL);
- Ukrainian drones.
The Ukrainian side thanked Norway for the constructive dialogue and its willingness to explore this matter further.
The parties also discussed the next steps in defence cooperation, including the development of air defence and counter-ballistic solutions.