Zelensky Meets Norwegian Leadership to Discuss Support for Ukraine

On March 20, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Oslo for discussions with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere, as announced by the Norwegian government. The meeting aims to explore how Norway can effectively assist Ukraine, both in the immediate future and long term.

"I look forward to constructive discussions on how Norway can best provide assistance to Ukraine in both the short term and the long term," Stoere stated in an official announcement.

This visit occurs on the same day that Zelensky is scheduled to deliver an online address to a European summit. Furthermore, the United Kingdom is hosting military leaders from over 20 countries on the same day to deliberate on a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, referred to as the "coalition of the willing."

Prime Minister Stoere emphasized Norway's commitment to Ukraine, stating, "Norway supports Ukraine in its fight to defend itself and is contributing to the effort to achieve a lasting, just peace in the country."

Throughout the day, Stoere and Zelensky will engage in a series of meetings. In addition to the Prime Minister, Norwegian Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg, Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, and Defense Minister Tore Sandvik will also meet with members of Zelensky's delegation during this visit.

Norway has been a significant supporter of Ukraine since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. Earlier this month, leaders in the Norwegian parliament agreed to increase aid for Ukraine by 50 billion Norwegian krone (approximately $4.6 billion), raising the total aid to 85 billion Norwegian krone (around $7.8 billion) by 2025. In related news, U.S. President Donald Trump's call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 18, which discussed a potential ceasefire, has received a skeptical response in Kyiv. While Trump described the conversation as a “great call,” reactions in Ukraine suggest a cautious approach to the unfolding situation.

As international leaders gather to discuss efforts for peace and support in Ukraine, the ongoing dialogue between Zelensky and Norwegian officials illustrates the continued global efforts to assist Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.