- It is a strong experience to be in Kiev today and celebrate Independence Day at the same time when the country is at war and every day defends itself against illegal attacks by Russia - says the Prime Minister.

In addition to participating in official ceremonies commemorating Ukraine's independence and political meetings with President Zelensky and Prime Minister Shmyhal, the prime minister visited the power plant destroyed by Russian attacks and visited Bucha, where the brutality and mistreatment of the population by the Russian occupation forces shocked the whole world after the city was liberated.

“After a year and a half of a very brutal and destructive war, the experience of will and skill that Ukrainians show to defend their country and their people is very impressive. This war is about the security of Norway and Europe, and we can never be indifferent to that, says Støre.

Norway will continue to support Ukraine's defense against Russia for as long as necessary.

“Ukraine now urgently needs more military and material support. They have a huge demand for rockets and ammunition for air defense - says the prime minister.

Support for Ukraine

Norway provides extensive support to Ukraine in the fight against Russia's illegal warfare. All political parties in the Storting unite on the five-year program of Nansen Fr worth 75 billion NOK. Earlier this year, the government announced that it was accelerating funding for the program by NOK 2,5 billion, bringing support to a total of NOK 2023 billion in 10.