President of Ukraine Arrives in Norway with Unannounced Visit
President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, made an unannounced visit to Norway, arriving on Wednesday, December 13. During the visit, he met with the country's Prime Minister, Jonas Gahr Støre, to discuss support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression, as reported by the official portal of the Norwegian government.
"I am pleased to welcome Volodymyr Zelensky to Norway. I look forward to our constructive discussions. Norway will continue to support Ukraine in its struggle for security. We provide targeted, long-term support to help Ukraine in its fight for freedom and democracy. Ukraine's efforts are crucial for the defense of freedom and security here in Norway," stated Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
In addition to the meeting with the Norwegian Prime Minister, Volodymyr Zelensky will also participate in the summit of Nordic countries. The summit includes the President of Finland, Sauli Niinistö, the Prime Minister of Iceland, Katrín Jakobsdóttir, the Prime Minister of Denmark, Mette Frederiksen, and the Prime Minister of Sweden, Ulf Kristersson.
The summit aims to address issues of joint defense and security among the region's countries. A joint press conference of the leaders of the Nordic countries and Volodymyr Zelensky is expected at the end of the event.
On December 12, President Zelensky met with U.S. President Joe Biden, who announced an additional $200 million in military aid to Ukraine and assured further support. President Biden emphasized the need for Congress to approve additional funding for Kyiv, stating that failure to do so could be a "Christmas gift" to Vladimir Putin. Despite potential challenges, Biden reassured Zelensky that the United States would stand by Ukraine, even if Republicans block the aid package.
In addition to meeting with Joe Biden, President Zelensky held talks with American senators, including Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and Republican leader Mitch McConnell. He also met with the Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, who described the meeting as "good" and confirmed their solidarity against Putin's brutal invasion.