Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre says in an interview with TV 2 on Saturday morning that it is difficult to keep a full overview of what is happening inside war-torn Ukraine.
– Often the truth is the first victim in a war, says Støre, and continues:
– But there are many reports and reports that come out, and which can be checked against each other to at least be able to state that it is an extensive war.
Støre says that the situation now, where the Ukrainians are fighting for their country in the streets, including in Kyiv, is “strong testimony”. He describes the war as an “assault” on the part of Russia.
Will assist NATO in the east
Norway will, according to the Prime Minister, assist NATO with more forces when needed. But he stresses that no NATO forces will enter Ukraine, even though NATO is now strengthening its presence in the east.
– It is about taking care of the members’ safety, says Støre.
He emphasizes that NATO is a defense organization, and points out that it is now particularly important to show support for the member states that border Russia.
– Norway has a defense that is part of the cooperation with NATO. This means that we now have some of our forces in the Baltic countries to support them, so they can be safe. NATO is a defense organization, and does not carry out attacks, says Støre.
Supports EU sanctions
Jonas Gahr Støre said on Friday that Norway supports the sanctions the EU has presented to Russia.
Russia is facing significant opposition, and the Ukrainians are ready to fight for their country. It makes a strong impression to follow the situation from hour to hour, Støre said.
Will assist with refugee flow
Støre announced on Thursday that Norway will assist with 200 million kroner to Ukraine. It is continuously being considered whether this amount should be further increased, the Prime Minister stated on Friday.
The Prime Minister, on the other hand, said that they have not made a calculation of how many refugees Norway can count on.
– It will be the countries on the western border that will receive the most. Poland has already received a good deal. But we are prepared to enter into a Nordic co-operation, so that there will not be an unreasonable burden on a few, says Støre when asked by TV 2.
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