Zelenskyy Arrives in Norway for King Harald V Farewell Ceremony, to Meet PM Støre on Air Defense Support

President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store in Oslo on September 8 to discuss enhancing Ukraine's air defenses and progressing the Freyja anti-ballistic missile program. The discussions focused on bolstering Ukraine's air defense capabilities, acquiring interceptor missiles, furthering the Freyja anti-ballistic missile program, and Ukraine's preparations for the upcoming winter.

Following the meeting, Zelensky revealed that he and Store intended to meet with representatives from companies involved in developing Freyja, a Ukrainian-led European initiative aiming to create a more affordable alternative to the U.S.-made Patriot system. Ukraine anticipates having a functional prototype of Freyja ready by the first half of 2027. The project unites Ukraine and nine European nations, including Norway, along with various European defense manufacturers.

Zelensky arrived in Norway alongside his First Lady, Olena Zelenska, ahead of the September 9 funeral of King Harald V. The president conveyed condolences to Store regarding the monarch's passing and expressed gratitude to Norway's royal family and people for their support of Ukraine. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine deeply appreciates all the support provided by the royal family and the entire Norwegian populace.

King Harald V passed away on August 28 at Oslo University Hospital at the age of 89, having reigned over Norway since 1991. His son succeeded him as King Haakon VIII. Zelensky and other global leaders are anticipated to attend the funeral ceremony in Oslo on September 9.