Norway to provide weapons to Ukraine

‘The Government decided this afternoon that Norway will offer arms support to enable Ukraine to defend itself against the military attack from Russia. We are therefore aligning our actions with our close allies and the other Nordic countries. Norway has a restrictive policy with regard to exporting defence-related products, but Ukraine is now in a desperate and extraordinary situation,’ Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said.

Along with other countries, Norway received an overview of military equipment needed by Ukraine. Based on this, the Norwegian Armed Forces assessed what Norway could rapidly provide. The Government has decided to donate up to 2 000 M72 anti-tank weapons.

‘This is a contribution to support Ukraine in its defence against the military invasion. These are weapons that are easy to deploy and are used to defend against attacking armoured vehicles. The Norwegian Armed Forces are now working to prepare and send the weapons as quickly as possible,’ said Minister of Defence Odd Roger Enoksen.

Norway has previously allowed other countries to support Ukraine by providing Norwegian-produced ammunition or weapons. On 27 February, the Government decided to donate protective equipment such as helmets and bulletproof vests to Ukraine.

‘After consultations with the Storting, the Government has decided to donate weapons to Ukraine. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine makes it necessary for us to take unprecedented decisions and action,’ Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt said.

The weapons will be provided as a donation from one state to another, not a commercial export.