Zelenskyy and Stere met in Oslo/Photo: Press service of the Office of the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy
On 20 March, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Oslo for talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. The meeting was an important step in strengthening defence cooperation between Kyiv and Oslo, especially in the context of supporting the Ukrainian army and strengthening air defence, the press service of the Office of the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky reports.
“We are grateful to Norway, you, your team, the Parliament for the great support – military, humanitarian and energy assistance, which is especially important in these difficult winters. We will never forget it,” Zelenskyy said during the meeting.
What did the leaders discuss?
The key issues of the talks were the supply of F-16 fighter jets, artillery systems and ammunition to Ukraine, as well as the strengthening of Ukraine’s air defence. The parties also discussed investments in the Ukrainian defence sector, which is of strategic importance for the development of the country’s military industry.
The role of Norway in shaping the European plan to support Ukraine and efforts to achieve a just peace was discussed separately.
Norway is a strategic ally
Oslo remains one of Kyiv’s most loyal allies. Norway has already provided significant military assistance, including air defence systems, ammunition and armoured vehicles. The government also actively supports Ukraine in the area of energy security, which is of particular importance in the context of Russian attacks on critical infrastructure.
This meeting was part of Zelenskyy’s European tour. The day before, he visited Finland, where it was announced that a civil protection coalition had been set up to be led by Helsinki. Its goal is to help Ukraine build shelters and engage international partners in rebuilding infrastructure.
What’s next?
The Oslo talks are another step towards strengthening military and economic support for Ukraine. Investments in the defence industry, air defence enhancements and the delivery of F-16s could have a significant impact on Kyiv’s ability to effectively counter Russian aggression. The coming weeks will show how quickly these agreements will translate into actual deliveries of weapons and equipment.
