In a high-profile meeting at the White House on April 24, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre (Ap) was received by USA President Donald Trump for what both leaders described as a “very good conversation.” The session, which included Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg (Ap) and Ambassador Anniken Huitfeldt, lasted over 90 minutes—well beyond the scheduled time.
Trump praised the state of USA-Norwegian relations, calling them “perhaps closer than ever” and commended Støre as a “highly respected” leader. The Prime Minister extended an official invitation to Trump to visit Norway (Norge), to which the President responded positively.
Ukraine war dominates agenda
At the top of the agenda was the ongoing war in Ukraine, with both leaders expressing a desire to see the conflict come to an end.
“What we agree on is that the war must end,” Støre stated. He acknowledged Trump’s efforts to promote peace and emphasized the necessity for increased USA pressure on Russia.
“The important thing for European countries is to communicate to the USA that they must engage more clearly,” he added.
Trump echoed the sentiment, stating, “He [Støre] is going to help us end the war.”
Following the meeting, Iné Eriksen Søreide, chair of the Norwegian Parliament’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, underlined the importance of clear support for Ukraine: “It is crucial for both European and American security that Russia does not win the war.”
Trade talks and tariff tensions
Trade and tariffs also featured prominently. When asked about the possibility of reducing the 15% tariff on Norwegian goods, Trump jokingly suggested that Norway could afford to pay more:
“They have a great fund, it’s a big fund, and no debt—so I think they might be willing to pay us more.”
However, Norwegian statistics contradict Trump’s claim of a trade surplus. According to SSB (Statistisk sentralbyrå), Norway actually has a trade deficit with the USA. In 2024, Norwegian exports to the U.S. were valued at approximately NOK 60 billion (around 5.1 billion EUR), while imports reached NOK 82.7 billion (7 billion EUR).
Finance Minister Stoltenberg dismissed the notion that national wealth is relevant to tariffs:
“It’s not the Norwegian State that pays the tariffs.”
He reiterated Norway’s position that tariffs benefit no one: “We explained our positions, both on tariffs and our belief that no one profits from them.”
Diplomacy, peace, and a Nobel question
Throughout the press session in the Oval Office, the tone remained light and diplomatic. Trump continued to laud his Norwegian counterparts and even referred to Stoltenberg, former NATO Secretary General, as his “good friend.”
At one point, a reporter asked Støre whether Trump deserved a Nobel Peace Prize. Støre diplomatically deflected:
“The Nobel Committee is completely independent, and I cannot comment on that.”
Trump simply smiled and thanked the reporter for the question.
Strategic partnership reinforced
The meeting signals a renewed commitment to USA-Norwegian relations amid global tensions. With a focus on peace in Ukraine and potential trade adjustments, both leaders presented a united front despite underlying policy differences.
“It is important now that both parties know they must deliver and feel the pressure to do so. Ukraine is under attack. There must be a ceasefire,” said Støre.
The visit, praised across Norway’s political spectrum, may mark a strategic turning point for transatlantic cooperation in the face of growing geopolitical challenges.
