Ukraine to receive $700 million in military aid

“Ukraine is experiencing its fourth winter since the invasion. As a result of Russian attacks, the country faces enormous military, civilian, and humanitarian needs. The new agreement between Norway and France allows us to cooperate in providing the capabilities Ukraine needs,” said Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

The agreement gives Norway and France the opportunity to cooperate in providing unique and necessary defense equipment by purchasing it from French manufacturers or providing it from French stocks. In the first phase, Norway is allocating approximately NOK 4.2 billion ($440 million), and France is guaranteeing a loan of approximately NOK 3 billion ($300 million).

Last year, Norway and France signed an agreement to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

“France is becoming an increasingly important ally for Norway. Last year, we signed a strategic partnership that provides for closer cooperation in the field of security. Cooperation to support Ukraine is another manifestation of joint efforts to strengthen European security,” Støre said.

“The projects covered by this agreement are in line with Ukraine's key priorities and were identified following close dialogue with the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense. The projects we have identified in this agreement will have a rapid impact for Ukraine,” said Norwegian Minister of Defense Tore O. Sandvik.

The agreement provides for the purchase of a large quantity of air-to-surface weapons and surveillance and assessment equipment from the French defense industry.

"Air-to-surface weapons are flexible gliders launched from combat aircraft currently operated by Ukraine. Ukraine already has positive experience using these weapons. We are now working to ensure that Ukraine receives the weapons it has requested," he said.

Photo: freepik.com.