On the three-year anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Nordic countries have unveiled substantial financial packages aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s humanitarian, reconstruction, and military capabilities. The announcements underscore a renewed commitment from the Nordic countries to support Ukraine amid ongoing conflict and immense civilian suffering.
Denmark’s expanded support for Ukraine
Denmark has introduced a two-pronged financial initiative. In one component, the government is donating 405 million Danish kroner (approximately 54 million EUR) for humanitarian efforts and reconstruction. In a direct statement, Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen declared:
“We will stand by Ukraine’s side for as long as it takes.”
Additionally, a further donation of approximately 2 billion Danish kroner (approximately 268 million EUR) has been announced. According to a press release from the Danish Prime Minister’s office, these funds will support ammunition supplies and the establishment of a Ukrainian brigade, an initiative to be coordinated alongside Nordic and Baltic partners. In her remarks, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated:
“We continue our support as long as necessary. Ukraine fights for all of Europe. We must position Ukraine in the strongest possible position.”
Then Frederiksen added:
“I am proud that Denmark together with the Nordic and Baltic countries is leading the support for Ukraine. What we do now will be crucial for future generations in Ukraine and in Europe.”
These decisive measures aim to reinforce Ukraine’s resilience as it navigates the challenges of reconstruction and ongoing defense needs.
Norway’s comprehensive multi-billion kroner package
Norway has committed a significant sum as part of its Nansen program for Ukraine in 2025. The Storting (the Norwegian parliament) allocated 12.5 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately 1.19 billion EUR) for civilian and humanitarian aid, while an additional 22.5 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately 2.14 billion EUR) is designated for military support.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre emphasized the dual nature of Ukraine’s requirements, stating:
“Both the military and civilian needs in Ukraine are enormous. The war has led to great suffering and massive destruction. It is absolutely necessary to continue the civilian support to Ukraine.”
During his address at a summit in Kyiv on the anniversary, Støre also remarked:
“The human dimension of this day has made a strong impression.”
Norway’s commitment, combining both humanitarian and military funding, highlights its intent to support Ukraine’s defense and recovery efforts comprehensively.
International coordination and additional contributions
The Nordic initiative is part of a broader international effort. On the same day, Sweden announced the donation of air defense systems worth 1.2 billion Swedish kronor (approximately 108 million EUR)—a key component of its overall support package totaling 13.5 billion kronor, unveiled in January. This multi-national collaboration reinforces the message that support for Ukraine is both urgent and collective.
The announcements were made during a high-level summit in Kyiv, attended by various European and international leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The gathering underscored the importance of unity and swift action in response to the ongoing crisis.
