The Norwegian government has authorized direct sales of weapons produced by its defense industry to Ukraine.

This was reported on the Norwegian government’s website.

The decision came into force on January 1, 2024.

According to Espen Barth Eide, Norwegian Foreign Minister, support for Ukraine is important for Norwegian and European security.

“In the extraordinary security situation resulting from Russia’s war of aggression, it is crucial that we continue to support Ukraine. Support for Ukraine is important for Norwegian and European security. We must plan for the possibility that the illegal war of aggression may be prolonged. The Government has therefore decided to permit direct sales of weapons and defense-related products from the Norwegian defense industry to Ukraine,” the Foreign Minister stated.

It is noted that this change in policy means that Norwegian companies can apply to the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for an export license to directly sell weapons and defense products to Ukraine.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes that export licenses for direct sales will be granted on a case-by-case basis.

It is highlighted that all applications will be carefully evaluated. Controls will continue to be carried out within a strict and responsible framework, in accordance with Norwegian export control regulations.

Norwegian military assistance for Ukraine is part of a broader international effort among allies and partner countries.

It is worth noting that an exception was made for Ukraine as according to a 1959 decision of the Norwegian parliament, the country does not allow the sale of arms and ammunition produced by its defense industry to areas where there is a war or a threat of war, or to countries where there is a civil war.

“The fact that the government is now permitting direct sales to Ukraine does not mean that we would allow direct sales of weapons to countries at war on a general basis… The government’s decision applies to Ukraine and is justified by the extraordinary security policy situation we now find ourselves in, together with our allies,” Foreign Minister Barth Eide pointed out.

Last December, the Norwegian government approved the transfer of additional NASAMS air defense systems to Ukraine.