Press release: Norwegian Government is Halving Support for Ukraine in 2025
The government has repeatedly promised our Ukrainian allies that Norway's support will increase. However, in the 2025 state budget, the support has been halved from 2024.
- The fact that Europe's richest country is now reducing aid to Ukraine, is the last thing Ukraine’s exhausted defenders need, says Jørn Sund-Henriksen, leader of the Norwegian-Ukrainian Friendship Association.
Figures from the reputable Kiel Institute show that Norway is by far the Nordic country that has contributed the least support to Ukraine. The budget proposal means Norway will contribute far less than our neighboring countries also in 2025.
- The government's budget proposal shows little willingness to stand by Ukraine when they need it the most. Despite the increasing need and other countries giving more, Norway plans to reduce its support. It’s becoming increasingly embarrassing to be Norwegian, says Sund-Henriksen.
In the budget proposal, NOK 7.5 billion is allocated for military support, while another NOK 7.5 billion is earmarked for civil and humanitarian aid. In comparison, Sweden’s annual military support to Ukraine is SEK 25 billion. This is in addition to civilian aid and support through the EU.
- The other Nordic countries are escalating their support, in line with Ukraine's needs. The government is choosing the opposite approach. It’s incomprehensible, says Sund-Henriksen.
The government is increasing the defense budget substantiatly, in line with the Long-Term Plan for the Defense Sector. This same defense plan states that the most immediate and effective way to ensure Norway's security is to help Ukraine win the war.
- Ukraine is in a critical race with Russia over who has the resources to win a war of attrition. Norway could have taken action in 2024 to influence the outcome of the war, but the 2025 proposal fails to make a significant contribution either. Fortunately, Sweden, Finland, and Denmark are stepping up when we are not, Sund-Henriksen concludes.
For further comment:
Jørn Sund-Henriksen, leader of the Norwegian-Ukrainian Friendship Association
jorn@norsk-ukrainsk.no
+47 95161741
