Zelensky, Norway’s Defense Minister Discuss Joint Arms Production
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met with Norwegian Minister of Defense Tore Onshuus Sandvik to discuss joint arms production, investment in Ukrainian weapons manufacturing, and strengthening of air defense.
Zelensky shared details of the meeting on Facebook, CE Report quotes Ukrinform.
"I am pleased to welcome Norway’s Minister of Defense, Tore Onshuus Sandvik, on his first visit to Ukraine," the President stated.
According to Zelensky, they discussed further defense cooperation, with a focus on joint production and investment in Ukrainian weapons manufacturing, as well as bolstering Ukraine’s air defense and combat aviation.
Zelensky highlighted the importance of Norwegian F-16 fighter jets and NASAMS air defense systems as a vital component of Ukraine’s sky protection.
"We value this support and hope for additional systems," he emphasized.
The President’s website noted that this was Sandvik’s first visit to Ukraine since his appointment in February this year.
Zelensky thanked the Norwegian government for its substantial military support for Ukraine, which has increased this year to $7 billion. He expressed hope that such a level of support would continue in the coming year.
The key focus of the Zelensky–Sandvik discussion was how to most effectively utilize these funds to help Ukrainians in the fight against Russian aggression.
The President also noted that he had earlier discussed with the Norwegian Prime Minister increasing Ukraine’s domestic capacity for producing long-range strike systems.
"I am pleased to note that he supported this idea and proposed discussing it with you in more detail," Zelensky told Sandvik.
The discussion on investment in Ukrainian weapons production included topics such as drones, long-range missiles, and scaling up joint defense manufacturing.
Zelensky also expressed gratitude for Norway’s energy support during the winter and its financial contribution toward the purchase of imported gas.
In response, Sandvik reaffirmed continued support for Ukraine and stressed the importance of developing the defense capabilities of both countries.
As reported, the European Council approved Norway’s voluntary contribution of 1 billion Norwegian kroner (86 million euros) to support the Ukrainian army under the European Peace Facility.
