Norway has revealed that it was providing 340 million euros ($397 million) in emergency funding to support Ukraine’s energy sector and help the government maintain critical services, as part of the Nordic country’s wider aid to the war-torn nation in 2026.
Russian attacks have long targeted Ukraine’s energy network and have become more intense in recent months at a time of plunging winter temperatures.
The Norwegian parliament late last year allocated 85 billion crowns ($8.45 billion) for aid to Ukraine, with 70 billion going to military support and 15 billion to civilian and humanitarian aid.
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The civilian package allotted 4.8 billion crowns to energy security and supply, followed by 4 billion for budget support and reconstruction and 3.5 billion for humanitarian assistance, with additional funding designated for business development, civil society and governance reforms, and support for Moldova.
European countries are backing Ukraine in its defence against Russia, with EU leaders recently agreeing to a 90 billion euro loan.
Norway is a wealthy Northern European country on the Scandinavian Peninsula, known for its dramatic fjords, long coastline, and cold but temperate coastal climate. Its capital is Oslo, the official language is Norwegian, and it operates as a constitutional monarchy with a strong democratic system.
Norway’s economy is driven largely by oil and gas, alongside fishing, shipping, and renewable energy, and it manages one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds.
The country has a high standard of living, offering free healthcare and education, and consistently ranks among the best globally for quality of life. Although not a member of the European Union, Norway plays an active role internationally through diplomacy, peace efforts, and humanitarian aid.
REUTERS