Ukrainian President Zelensky visited Norway, confirming upcoming talks with the US and expressing doubt about a Russian ceasefire. Norway pledged increased military aid to Ukraine during this diplomatic endeavor.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to diplomatic negotiations with the United States during his visit to Oslo. He expressed skepticism regarding Russia’s willingness to agree to a ceasefire, stating that representatives from Ukraine and Russia are set to meet their American counterparts in Saudi Arabia on the upcoming Monday to discuss Ukraine’s future, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
While in Oslo, Zelensky made it clear that Ukraine does not expect Russia to concede to a ceasefire. “We are trying to take steps in the right direction,” he commented at a press conference alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store. This visit marks Zelensky’s second official trip to Norway and included meetings with various high-ranking officials, including the Finance Minister and former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.
Prime Minister Store emphasized the necessity for Ukraine to participate actively in ceasefire negotiations and remarked, “A strong European voice is important when discussing Ukraine’s future.” In a related development, Norway’s parliament approved a 50 billion Norwegian kroner increase in aid to Ukraine, increasing the total support to 85 billion Norwegian kroner by 2025. Store noted that the additional funds will be allocated for artillery ammunition, drones, and investments in Ukraine’s domestic defense industry.
In summary, President Zelensky’s visit to Norway highlighted Ukraine’s commitment to ongoing diplomatic discussions with the United States amidst skepticism about Russia’s intentions regarding a ceasefire. He indicated that despite the challenges, Ukraine is continuing efforts towards positive negotiations. Moreover, Norway’s significant increase in military aid further underscores European support for Ukraine amidst these discussions.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
