Zelenskyy, Norwegian premier agree to extend support for Ukraine into 2026

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store met in Oslo on Wednesday to discuss continued military and energy support for Kyiv, as Norway announced a new 1.5 billion kroner ($135 million) aid package to help Ukraine secure electricity and heating before winter.

“We are very grateful to you, the people of Norway, for saving the lives of our people,” Zelenskyy told a joint press conference, emphasizing that Russia “attacks us every day.”

“Of course, we defend ourselves with air defense and helicopters, with F-16s and many different things, but this is never enough. We are grateful for your support and we talked about continuing in 2026,” he added.

Store confirmed that Norway will maintain long-term military and humanitarian assistance and pursue coordinated diplomatic steps.

He said he will meet Zelensky again on Friday “when European leaders get together” for the so-called coalition of the willing meeting in London.

“Ukraine is facing another difficult winter, and access to electricity is unstable,” Store said, adding that cooperation with the EU aims to ensure power and heat for Ukrainian households, businesses, and institutions.

Norway's Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said stable energy supplies are vital for Ukraine’s resilience. “By cooperating with the EU, we ensure that this support will help ensure Ukraine’s energy security,” he said.