Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a high-profile visit to Norway on Thursday, marking his second official trip to the country since the full-scale Russian invasion began. The visit lasted approximately nine hours and was packed with meetings, press events, and symbolic gestures aimed at reinforcing European unity and bolstering support for Ukraine’s defense effort.
Zelenskyj arrived at Gardermoen military airport in the morning, accompanied by his wife and a Ukrainian delegation. He was warmly received in Oslo, where he met with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre (Ap), the Crown Prince and Princess, and representatives of the Norwegian parliament (Stortinget). A visibly enthusiastic crowd gathered outside the Stortinget, waving Ukrainian flags as Zelensky greeted demonstrators before entering the chamber.
Norwegian support increases to €7.4 billion
During the joint press conference with Prime Minister Støre, Zelensky expressed deep gratitude for Norway’s continued support throughout the war, particularly during the harsh winter months. The Norwegian Parliament recently approved an increase in military and civilian aid to Ukraine, boosting its 2025 contribution by 50 billion kroner, to a total of 85 billion NOK (approximately €7.4 billion).
The aid will fund critical supplies, including artillery ammunition, drones, and investment in Ukraine’s defense industry. “We have a close alliance with the United States and strong ties in Europe. These connections are crucial,” Støre said, reaffirming Norway’s position that Ukraine must have a seat at the table in any ceasefire discussions.
Ceasefire talks set for Monday in Saudi Arabia
Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine will participate in new ceasefire-related talks with the United States, scheduled for Monday in Saudi Arabia. While USA and Russia are also expected to hold separate discussions on the same day, there will be no direct talks between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations.
“We are taking steps in the right direction,” Zelensky stated, though he expressed skepticism that Moscow is genuinely committed to peace. “I don’t believe the Russians will agree to a ceasefire.”
The Ukrainian president also addressed recent Russian attacks on energy infrastructure, saying: “Last night, our energy facilities were hit again. This happens every day and every night, despite what [President] Putin claims about stopping attacks.”
Security guarantees and nuclear concerns
Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s opposition to any foreign control over its nuclear power infrastructure. “We have 15 nuclear power plants. They all belong to the Ukrainian state,” he said, indirectly referencing the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia plant. While rejecting outside ownership, he opened the door to post-war investment from partners such as the U.S.
When asked about NATO membership, Zelensky admitted that the issue is currently stalled due to American resistance, calling such hesitance “a big gift to Russia.”
On Crimea, which has been under Russian occupation since 2014, Zelenskyj was unequivocal: “It is a Ukrainian peninsula,” he said, lamenting its lost status as a once-popular tourist destination.
A powerful European voice for peace
Norway’s role as a European ally was highlighted repeatedly during the visit. Prime Minister Støre praised Ukraine’s resilience and underscored the importance of a strong European voice in any future negotiations.
“I know no one wants peace more than you. No one wants peace more than the Ukrainian people, who are suffering under attacks, battles, loss, and pain,” he said.
Zelensky also had a warm reunion with NATO’s former Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and was joined by Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide and Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram in further strategic discussions.
Eide noted that diplomatic tone between USA and Ukraine had improved, particularly after previous tensions involving former U.S. President Donald Trump. “Zelensky is pleased with American engagement for peace, but also with Europe’s commitment to ensure a fair and lasting peace for Ukraine,” Eide said.
Zelensky’s Nordic tour included a similar visit to Finland just a day earlier. As he left Oslo Thursday afternoon, the message was clear: Ukraine continues to seek security and peace, but will do so on its own terms, with steadfast backing from its European partners.
