Latest news from the Norwegian Government on the situation in Ukraine

Defence cooperation between Norway and US essential for our security

The Supplementary Defense Cooperation Agreement between Norway and the US has now been submitted to the Storting for consideration. ‘This Agreement provides a framework for further developing our crucial cooperation with the US in this area. Our primary focus is on safeguarding Norwegian security and Norwegian interests, but this cooperation is also important for the security of Europe as a whole,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt.

Foreign Minister: Condemns the attack in Kramatorsk, Ukraine

'I condemn the missile attack on the railway station in Kramatorsk. Dozens of Ukrainians have been killed and injured. I extend my heartfelt condolences to their families and friends', the Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt said.

Briefing about Nordic Co-operation

Briefing for the Diplomatic Corps in Oslo about Nordic Co-operation and the Norwegian Presidency by Minister of Nordic Co-operation (and Minister of International Development), Anne Beathe Tvinnereim.

By Former Minister of International Development Anne Beathe Tvinnereim Oslo, 8 April

Russia suspended from UN Human Rights Council

Today, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution calling for Russia to be suspended from the Human Rights Council. A total of 93 countries voted for the resolution, 24 voted against, and 58 countries abstained. Norway was one of the co-sponsors of the resolution and voted in favour of Russia’s suspension from the Council.

The Norwegian Government plans to increase national security, especially in the North

The security situation in Europe has changed. This means that emergency preparedness in Norway must adapt correspondingly. The Norwegian Government proposes allocating a total of NOK 100 million to counter foreign intelligence and complex threats, and for an increased presence in the High North.

The Norwegian Government is tasking the National Criminal Investigation Service with assisting in the investigation of possible war crimes in Ukraine by the International Criminal Court

Norway is among several countries which believe that the acts of war in Ukraine should be investigated by the International Criminal Court (ICC).

The Norwegian Government proposes several changes to rules to address the refugee situation

Today the Norwegian Government is sending proposals for several changes to rules out for consultation. This is part of the work to prepare to receive tens of thousands of refugees in Norway. The Norwegian Government wants to ensure that the rules are flexible enough for the municipalities to handle a large number of refugees over a short period of time.

Consultation regarding adaptations and exemptions from the Child Welfare Act to handle the increase in refugees from Ukraine to Norway

The authorities are now planning for a large number of children to arrive in Norway at the same time. The current dispensation rules allow an increase in people in care centres. The services may become overwhelmed, nevertheless. The Ministry of Children and Families therefore proposes necessary adaptations to the rules to make the system flexible enough to receive a large number of children over a short period of time.

Norway declares three Russian diplomats persona non grata

'Norway has decided declare three diplomats at Russia's embassy in Oslo persona non grata. The three individuals have carried out activities that are incompatible with their diplomatic status', Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt said.

Norway to provide NOK 100 million to Moldova

‘Moldova, one of the poorest countries in Europe, has seen an influx of over 400.000 refugees and needs our support. We are allocating funding both for assistance to vulnerable refugees and to facilitate the efforts of the Moldovan authorities,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt.

Appalled by reports of atrocities in Ukraine

'I am appalled by reports of unimaginable atrocities in Ukraine, where Russia is withdrawing,' Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt said.

Security in a new security policy landscape

The war in Ukraine has dramatically changed the security policy landscape in Europe. The Government is proposing a number of immediate measures in response to the new situation.

The Norwegian Government wants to strengthen civil emergency preparedness

The Norwegian Government is following up its political platform regarding increasing emergency preparedness. The situation in Ukraine has intensified tensions and created uncertainty, making it necessary to implement civil measures quickly. Today the Norwegian Government has therefore proposed a number of substantial measures, including establishing a public warning service using the mobile network and strengthening the Civil Defence.

The Norwegian Government proposes allocating a further NOK 200 million to increase digital security in 2022

Russia’s attack on Ukraine has created a new security policy situation, which also means that digital attacks against Norway have become more likely. ‘We must strengthen civil emergency preparedness against cyber attacks, and the Norwegian Government therefore proposes allocating a further NOK 200 million to increase digital security in 2022,’ says Minister of Justice and Public Security Emilie Enger Mehl.

Contribution of human rights defenders in conflict situations recognised in the UN

A resolution on human rights defenders in conflict situations put forward by Norway has been adopted by the UN Human Rights Council today.

Norway to increase support for civilians in Afghanistan

‘Afghanistan is facing enormous political and humanitarian challenges. The situation for children is particularly grave. Norway will provide NOK 700 million in humanitarian aid to Afghanistan in 2022,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt. No support provided by Norway will go to the Taliban regime.

Mehl: ‘The first refugees from Moldova may arrive next week’

Moldova has asked Norway and a number of European countries for help to receive displaced Ukrainians, and the Norwegian Government will be transferring 2 500 Ukrainian refugees from Moldova.

Norway provides additional weapons to Ukraine

The Norwegian government has offered an additional 2000 M72 light anti-armour weapons to Ukraine.

Prime Minister Støre spoke with President Putin

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre had a one-hour telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday morning.

Minister of Foreign Affairs congratulates Erik Møse on appointment as Chair of Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine

‘I would like to congratulate Erik Møse on his appointment as Chair of the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt.