Norway pledges $242 million to bolster Ukraine’s Black Sea Fleet against Russia

The Norwegian government stated this on its official website.

The Norwegian government stated that during a meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Håkonsvern, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre announced a new aid package under Norway’s "Nansen" program.

"Ukraine needs greater support to weaken Russian naval forces in the Black Sea in the future. This is crucial for protecting the Ukrainian population and infrastructure from attacks by Russia's Black Sea fleet. It is also important to protect Ukraine’s exports of grain and other goods by sea, which provide significant income for the country," he emphasized.

Among other things, the funds will be directed towards the Ukrainian population, demining efforts, and training Ukrainian soldiers.

Norwegian Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram emphasized that demining is critically important for ensuring the safety of shipping in the Black Sea.

"Our systems will enable Ukrainian forces to better detect and neutralize mines along their own coastline," he stated.

Additionally, part of the funding will be allocated to innovations within naval forces.

• Next year, Norway will train Ukrainian fighter pilots and ground specialists for F-16s in Portugal.