Ukraine secures long-term security deals with Sweden, Norway, and Iceland

The deals mark a significant step as Kyiv continues to seek increased military support from Western allies.

During his visit to Stockholm, President Zelenskiy emphasized the growing threat posed by Russia, which has recently intensified its attacks on Kharkiv in northeastern Ukraine. Zelenskiy stated that Ukraine's use of Western-provided weapons to strike Russian territory was "only a question of time."

The newly signed security agreements with Sweden and Norway bring the total number of such deals with Western nations to 15. All Nordic countries, now members of NATO, have been steadfast supporters of Ukraine. "You can see that Russia is trying to expand the war ... Only together we can stop the madness from Moscow," Zelenskiy declared.

In a joint statement, the Nordic leaders and Zelenskiy pledged to enhance their collective production capacity to meet Ukraine's need for critical munitions. Sweden has committed to transferring two ASC 890 surveillance aircraft, essential for detecting incoming cruise missiles and drones, and its entire stock of armored tracked personnel carriers. However, discussions are ongoing about whether Kyiv will receive Swedish Saab Gripen fighter jets or U.S.-made F-16s to align with NATO air capabilities.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed his country's solidarity with Ukraine, stating, "You are literally fighting not only for your own freedom but also for our freedom and our security."

Norway has signed a 10-year security deal with Ukraine, augmenting its existing bilateral aid program, which provides $7 billion in combined military and humanitarian aid over five years. This additional agreement will focus on maritime and air defense, with potential for Norwegian defense industry production to be localized in Ukraine, accelerating the delivery of defense supplies. Norway hosts major defense manufacturers like Nammo, a leading European ammunition producer, and Kongsberg Gruppen, known for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) used by Ukrainian forces.

Iceland also inked a long-term security agreement with Ukraine. Earlier this year, Denmark and Finland signed 10-year security pacts with Ukraine in February and April, respectively.

These agreements underscore the collective resolve of Nordic countries to support Ukraine in its conflict with Russia and enhance their mutual security and production capabilities. (ILKHA)