Norway Steps Up: billion-Euro Gas Aid promised to Ukraine
Vilnius, Lithuania – Norway has pledged significant support to Ukraine, committing to help cover a potential gas deficit estimated at one billion euros ($1.08 billion). The announcement followed a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store on June 2 in Vilnius.
Did you know? Ukraine’s gas infrastructure has been a frequent target of Russian attacks, leading to significant disruptions in energy supply and impacting millions of citizens.
President Zelensky emphasized the importance of this commitment, stating:
We discussed issues that are important for Ukraine right now. I received a positive signal from him. This concerns gas: if we face a deficit in winter, can we count on the appropriate volume? Today, I received support from jonas (Gahr Store).
The Energy Crisis: A Nation Under Attack
Russian forces have consistently targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, resulting in widespread power and heat shortages. Last winter alone, 34 facilities belonging to Ukrgasvydobuvannya, Ukraine’s largest gas producer and part of the state Naftogaz Group, where attacked. This led to a staggering loss of nearly 50% of the company’s gas production, as reported on April 21.
Pro Tip: Diversifying energy sources and strengthening infrastructure resilience are crucial steps for Ukraine to mitigate the impact of future attacks and ensure a stable energy supply for it’s citizens.
President Zelensky addressed the potential shortfall during an online press conference:
We agreed that we will look for opportunities to close any deficit, which may arise if everything is not restored (Ukrainian gas production infrastructure affected by Russian attacks), if we cannot fully provide our population with gas.
He further elaborated on the scale of the support needed:
And therefore there is an appropriate volume. We have found half, but we were missing another half. I’ll put it this way: we’re talking about a volume worth a billion euros – that’s what I’m discussing with the Norwegian prime minister.
Beyond Gas: A Multifaceted Partnership
The discussions between the two leaders extended beyond immediate gas needs. They also addressed continued support for Kyiv, focusing on:
- Strengthening Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.
- Encouraging direct investment in Ukraine’s defense industry, particularly in drone production.
- Increasing pressure on Russia.
These points were also discussed during the meeting.
Norway’s Commitment: A Global Leader in aid
Norway ranks as the 11th largest provider of aid to Ukraine globally. To date, it has contributed over $4.5 billion in humanitarian, financial, and military support, according to the Kiel Institute’s Ukraine Support Tracker.This substantial commitment underscores norway’s dedication to supporting Ukraine during this critical time.
Adding to the symbolic support, on May 20, Crown Prince Haakon of Norway visited Ukraine to meet with President Zelensky.This marked the first visit by a member of the Norwegian royal family since the start of russia’s invasion, signaling strong solidarity.
