During a press conference with President Zelenskyy, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre revealed Norway’s plan to provide approximately US$8.5 billion to Ukraine next year. This allocation, part of the Nansen Programme, will be presented to parliament as a proposal. The majority of the funds will be directed towards military equipment for Ukraine’s defense forces, following this year’s US$8 billion commitment. Støre also stated that he hopes to maintain this level of support.
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Norway and Germany to finance two American Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine amid Russian missile threat.
Okay, so let’s unpack this situation. Norway and Germany, stepping up to the plate, are essentially footing the bill for two more Patriot air defense systems to be shipped to Ukraine. This is pretty significant, especially considering the ongoing Russian missile threat that Ukraine is facing daily. It’s a clear indication of the continued international support for Ukraine’s defense, and frankly, it’s a welcome development.
The Patriot system, for those unfamiliar, is a sophisticated and highly effective air defense system. It’s designed to intercept tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and advanced aircraft.… Continue reading
Marius Borg Hoiby, the son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, faces 32 charges, including four counts of rape. The charges stem from incidents involving domestic abuse, violence, and disturbing the peace, as well as the secret filming of women’s genitals. The alleged offenses occurred in 2018, 2023, and 2024, with the final incident taking place after the police investigation began. Hoiby, who has admitted to assault and vandalism in one instance, is also reportedly struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues.
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The Norwegian Police Security Service (PST) has officially attributed a cyberattack on a hydropower dam in Bremanger to Russia, marking the first time Oslo has formally accused Moscow. The attack, which occurred in April, allowed water to flow unnoticed for four hours, releasing 500 liters per second. PST’s head stated the incident exemplifies a shift in activity from pro-Russian cyber actors aimed at creating fear and chaos. Although no injuries or damage resulted, the PST is warning that Russian intelligence services are actively attempting to gather information and recruit contacts within Norway.
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Alec Luhn, a US climate journalist, was found alive after being missing for almost a week during a solo hiking trip in Norway’s Folgefonna National Park. He sustained a leg injury but was otherwise in good health, according to his wife. Luhn, who embarked on the hike on July 31st from Odda, failed to appear for his scheduled return flight, leading his wife to notify authorities. This triggered a search and rescue operation that ultimately resulted in his safe discovery.
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Sweden, Norway, and Denmark have pledged a combined $500 million to a NATO initiative, facilitated by the NSPA, to provide Ukraine with urgently needed U.S.-made weapons. This funding will allow for the swift purchase of arms from the American market, as outlined by NATO’s Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL). The contributions include $275 million from Sweden, $135 million from Norway, and approximately $90 million from Denmark. This initiative is a response to a new scheme, announced by the U.S. President, that enables European countries to finance the purchase of American weapons for Ukraine.
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A former security guard at the U.S. Embassy in Norway has been indicted on suspicion of espionage, accused of sharing sensitive information with Russia and Iran. The man allegedly provided details about embassy diplomats, floor plans, and security protocols. While acknowledging the facts, the defendant denies criminal guilt, citing legal interpretation of the information’s classification. If found guilty, he could face up to 21 years in prison, and this case follows another involving a researcher at Norway’s Arctic University suspected of espionage.
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Oslo police have charged Marius Borg Høiby, the eldest son of Norway’s Crown Princess, with multiple counts including rape, sexual assault, and bodily harm following an extensive investigation involving a double-digit number of alleged victims. Evidence gathered from text messages, witness testimonies, and police searches led to the charges. Høiby, who has been cooperative throughout the investigation, denies any wrongdoing in most of the cases, particularly those related to sexual abuse and violence. Høiby, who lives separately from the royal family, remains free pending a potential trial and is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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Norway’s annual weapons export report reveals a plan to supply Ukraine with 14 F-16 fighter jets, exceeding previous public statements of six. The additional eight aircraft’s condition is unspecified, potentially ranging from fully operational to parts or training aids. Alongside the F-16s, 20 Dingo 2 armored vehicles and 2 NM189 engineering vehicles will also be transferred. While the delivery timeline for the extra F-16s is unknown, the entire consignment is slated for completion by the end of 2025.
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In Vilnius, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and Norwegian Prime Minister Støre held talks centered on bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities. Key discussion points included increased air defense systems, potentially through Nordic collaboration, and significant Norwegian investment in Ukraine’s burgeoning drone production. Støre reaffirmed Norway’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense industry, highlighting its existing participation in a drone coalition. The meeting underscored the continued international support for Ukraine’s defense efforts amidst the ongoing conflict.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood