Norway has pledged 1.6 billion Norwegian kroner ($153 million) towards a Czech-led effort to supply Ukraine with hundreds of thousands of crucial artillery shells, the country's government revealed on March 7.
This initiative comes as Ukraine experiences a dire need for more artillery ammunition amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia.
"Ukraine urgently needs large quantities of artillery ammunition to withstand the Russian war of aggression," stated Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere.
The urgency for ammunition has been heightened by delays in aid from the U.S., prompting Czech President Petr Pavel to announce Prague's identification of 800,000 artillery shells available for quick shipment to Ukraine, pending financial support from allies.
The Financial Times places the estimated cost for this significant purchase at around $1.5 billion.
With contributions from countries including Canada, Belgium, the Netherlands, France, among others, nearly all necessary funds have been secured, as reported by Bloomberg.
Responding to the increased need for defense support, Norway has intensified its defense production capabilities, not only to meet its own requirements but also to aid Ukraine. In January, Oslo dedicated 2 billion Norwegian kroner ($190 million) towards enhancing its defense manufacturing.
In 2023 alone, Norway's commitment to Ukraine's military aid has reached approximately $1 billion, according to official statements from the Norwegian government.
