Zelensky Visits Norway for Talks on Assistance to Ukraine

Oslo, March 20, 2023 – President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine arrived in Oslo today for discussions with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere. The meeting aims to focus on how Norway can enhance its support for Ukraine in both the immediate and long-term context.

"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 a public announcement prior to the meeting.

Zelensky’s visit takes place ahead of his scheduled online address to a European summit later today, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the situation in Ukraine. In addition, the United Kingdom is hosting military leaders from over 20 countries today to discuss a peacekeeping initiative for Ukraine, which is part of the “coalition of the willing.”

During their meetings, Stoere emphasized Norway's commitment to support Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia. “Norway supports Ukraine in its fight to defend itself and is contributing to the effort to achieve a lasting, just peace in the country,” he noted.

Beyond the prime minister, Zelensky's visit includes meetings with key members of the Norwegian government, including Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg, Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, and Defense Minister Tore Sandvik. These discussions are part of Norway's continued support for Ukraine following the outbreak of the full-scale invasion in 2022. Recently, Norwegian parliamentary leaders approved a plan to increase aid for Ukraine by 50 billion Norwegian krone (approximately $4.6 billion), raising the total aid to 85 billion Norwegian krone ($7.8 billion) by the year 2025. In related news, reactions in Kyiv have been mixed following a recent call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. While Trump described the conversation as a “great call,” skepticism has emerged in Kyiv regarding its potential impact on the ongoing conflict, illustrating the complexities of international perceptions surrounding the crisis.

As Zelensky engages with Norwegian leaders today, the focus remains firmly on strengthening support for Ukraine as it navigates the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.