Norway Supports Ukraine During New Peace Initiatives

• Norway will continue military support for Ukraine until 2024.
• A new exchange of prisoners took place in Ukraine with Russia.
• Ukrainian drones are attacking Russian facilities, causing damage.

Kyiv, Ukraine (AP) — The Prime Minister of Norway, Jonas Gahr Støre, announced the continuation of substantial military and civilian support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression until the upcoming year during his visit to Kyiv. He emphasized that Ukraine upholds an important principle at the European level, rejecting the acceptance of the annexation of Russian territory.

High-ranking officials visiting Kyiv in recent days reflect the ongoing peace initiatives, as noted by the U.S. President Donald Trump is exploring possibilities for peace negotiations, but so far there is no sign of progress.

The U.S. Special Representative, Kit Kellogg, attended the celebrations of Independence Day in Kyiv, while the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, met with him afterward. The Prime Minister of Canada, Mark Carney, also visited Kyiv, announcing 2 billion Canadian dollars in aid, while Germany's Vice-Chancellor, Lars Klingbeil, was present for discussions on supporting Ukraine in the peace process.

In addition, last week Ukraine held talks with Russia, returning to the discussion of military and civilian personnel. Among those dismissed were representatives from various branches of Ukraine's armed forces.

On the night of the weekend, Ukrainian drones attacked Russian territory, causing damage in several locations, including ports. Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg was temporarily closed due to these strikes. One of the Russian airlines had to cancel a flight to Tallin.

Norway also announced the allocation of nearly 7 billion kroner (695 million dollars) for air defense systems for Ukraine, including joint financing for two Patriot systems.

Drones Attack Russia

On the night of the weekend, Russian troops were attacked by Ukrainian drones, which targeted facilities in Ust-Luga and the vicinity of the Kursk region. Fires were reported from unmanned aerial vehicles.

Ukrainian forces also struck Russian oil refineries, arsenals, and transport vehicles, leading to disruptions in commercial aviation.

Tags: Ukraine/Russia/Politics