Thank you, Madam Chair,
Norway has aligned with the statement delivered by the European Union, but let me add a few remarks in my national capacity.
The attack on the city center of Odesa on Monday, which claimed at least five innocent lives, is yet another example of the brutal character of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. The reported use of cluster munitions in this attack is appalling and must be vehemently condemned.
It has become apparent over the past two years of full-scale war that there are hardly any limits to the devastation and suffering the Kremlin is willing to inflict on the Ukrainian people.
The resulting humanitarian needs are immense, with millions displaced within and beyond Ukraine’s borders, thousands in urgent need of medical care, and many facing severe shortages of food and basic necessities.
According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, more than 14.6 million people, about 40% of the Ukrainian population, are in need of humanitarian assistance in 2024.
Madam Chair,
For 2024, Norway has committed 15 billion NOK through the five-year Nansen support programme for Ukraine. Additionally, this week, the government proposed an increase in this year’s support by an additional 7 billion NOK. This includes 6 billion NOK to military support with a focus on air defense and 1 billion NOK to bolster energy security, the government’s ability to provide essential services to the public and to humanitarian aid.
Rest assured, Norway will continue to provide strong military, financial, humanitarian and diplomatic support to the brave Ukrainian people. We also remain committed to supporting President Zelensky’s Peace Formula, including as co-chair for working groups 3 and 4 on energy security and the safe return of deported children, civilian detainees and prisoners of war.
Thank you.