Norway plans to allocate NOK 2B to help Ukraine provide itself with gas

The Government of Norway announced its intention to allocate NOK 2 billion (about USD 180,000) so that the Ukrainians could provide themselves with gas for the winter period against the background of Russian aggression.

This is stated in the press release of the Government of Norway, Ukrinform reports.

"The war has led to the fact that Ukraine needs immediate external support. Ukraine asked Norway to take the lead in ensuring access to energy sources. We follow the situation closely and suggest spending NOK 2 billion on the purchase of gas by the Ukrainians in autumn and winter," said Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

As noted, during his visit to Kyiv in July, Støre announced that Norway would increase its support to Ukraine to NOK 10 billion in 2022 and 2023.

"Our contribution to the purchase of gas, among other things, will help to keep hospitals and schools of Ukraine warm this winter, as well as give many people the opportunity to cook hot meals," the PM said.

Norway plans to use the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) as a channel to support gas purchases for Ukraine. Norway also called on other countries to provide support for gas purchases through the EBRD.

"In March, Ukraine asked the Bank for support in gas purchases to compensate for the loss of domestic gas and imports after the Russian invasion. Norway and other donors will help Ukraine to purchase and store gas," said Anniken Huitfeldt, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway.

As reported, the Government of Norway last week imposed new sanctions on Russia, aiming to significantly limit its ability to finance the war against Ukraine.

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