Støre in Kyiv on the Anniversary of the Russian Attack. Concrete Declarations Made

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre arrived in Kyiv on February 24. The visit takes place on the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion. Also present in the Ukrainian capital are leaders from the Nordic and Baltic countries, as well as representatives from the EU and the United Kingdom. Norway has announced it will maintain a high level of support under the Nansen program.

In 2026, Norway will allocate 85 billion NOK to support Ukraine. This is the same amount as the previous year. Of this sum, 70 billion NOK will be military aid. The remaining 15 billion NOK is for civilian support. The allocation of funds may change depending on Ukraine's needs.

Over 12 billion NOK will be allocated to drones and autonomous systems. About 9 billion NOK will go to air defense and F-16 fighter jets. Around 6 billion NOK is earmarked for maritime security. Further funds include 3.5 billion NOK for the brigade initiative with Nordic, Baltic, and Polish partners, and about 5 billion NOK for training. More than 8 billion NOK will support international cooperation mechanisms and strategic projects.

Støre emphasized that the funds should be used where they will have the greatest impact. He noted that Ukrainians know their needs best. He also highlighted the importance of air defense in protecting civilians from Russian attacks.

Among those present in Kyiv are Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper also traveled to the Ukrainian capital. The leaders took part in ceremonies commemorating fallen soldiers.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russia has not achieved its goals. He emphasized that Ukraine has not been defeated. Russia currently controls about one-fifth of Ukraine's territory in the east. Authorities in Moscow have announced the continuation of military operations, referred to as a so-called special operation. The Kremlin points out that the conflict has turned into a broader confrontation with the West.

In Ukraine, the anniversary of the invasion was marked by a minute of silence. Kyiv residents remembered the fallen soldiers. Some families have had loved ones on the front lines for four years. Discussions are also ongoing about further international support and possible security guarantees.