Norwegian Conservative Party Proposes Tripling Military Aid to Ukraine
11 November, 2024 Illustrative photo of the flags of Ukraine and Norway. Photo from open sources The Norwegian Conservative Party calls for an increase in military aid to Ukraine by NOK 30 billion in 2025.
Representatives of the party told about this to the Aftenposten newspaper. "The war is now in a decisive phase, it can be won or lost. And it is in the interest of our own security to prevent the fall of Ukraine," says Ine Soreide of the Norwegian Conservative Party.
The Conservative Party proposes to triple Norwegian aid to Ukraine next year, from NOK 15 billion to NOK 45 billion. The funds are to be used to strengthen Ukraine's defense industry.
Bohdana self-propelled guns with anti-drone screens. March 2024.
Photo: 47th Artillery Brigade
This amount represents 40% of Norway's defense budget for next year. The party believes that the increased support will have a direct impact on the front line and has received assurances from Ukraine regarding weapons production lines that can be quickly expanded. Party leaders assure that Norwegian investment in Ukraine's defense industry could make a real difference on the front line in a short time.
Finance spokesperson and deputy party leader Tina Bru emphasizes that the funds will be used abroad so as not to increase pressure on the Norwegian economy and interest rates at home.
Shark drones for Special Operations Forces. October 2024.
Ukraine. Photo: Khmelnytskyi City Council
The conservatives also envision support for Ukraine's energy sector and the construction of military infrastructure, including shelters for F-16 fighter jets. The final decision on increasing military aid to Ukraine is to be made by the Norwegian government.
Previously, on October 31, it was reported that Norwegian Defense Minister Bjorn Arild Gram announced new military assistance to Ukraine, designed to strengthen the air force and navy.
During a visit to the Odesa region, Gram announced that Norway would increase support for the Ukrainian Air Force with an additional contribution of up to NOK 1.3 billion, which will be used to purchase weapons and spare parts for F-16s.