**Norway’s Investment in Ukraine: A Conversation with Eivind Vad Petersson**
In a recent interview, Oleksiy Sorokin of the Kyiv Independent spoke with Eivind Vad Petersson, state secretary to the Norwegian foreign minister and co-chair of the joint Norwegian-Ukrainian Working Group on Nuclear Safety and Security. The conversation covered several pressing issues, including the threats Russia’s war poses to Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, Norway’s investment in Ukrainian defense production, and how to keep Western military aid flowing to help Ukraine protect its civilian infrastructure from Russia’s escalating attacks.
One of the key topics discussed was the threat posed by Russia’s war to Ukraine’s nuclear power plants. Petersson emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and security of these facilities, which are critical to Ukraine’s energy needs. He also highlighted Norway’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in this effort, including through the joint working group on nuclear safety and security.
The conversation also touched on Norway’s investment in Ukrainian defense production, with Petersson noting that his country is committed to helping Ukraine strengthen its military capabilities. This includes investments in areas such as air defense systems, like NASAMS, which have been critical in helping Ukraine protect its civilian infrastructure from Russian attacks.
In addition to discussing the specific issues of nuclear safety and defense production, Petersson also touched on broader geopolitical concerns, including the potential for the Arctic to become a battleground between Russia and NATO. He noted that Norway is committed to maintaining good relations with all countries, including Russia, but emphasized the importance of standing firm in support of Ukraine.
**Russia’s Actions Escalate: Ballistic Missiles Launched Against Ukrainian Village**
In other news, Russia launched two ballistic missiles against a village in Ukraine on July 1. According to the military, the missiles were likely Iskander-M and were launched at 9:15 a.m. local time. The attack resulted in no reported casualties.
**Ukraine Receives $500 Million from IMF**
The Ukrainian Ministry of Finance announced that the country has received approximately $500 million from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This is the ninth tranche under Ukraine’s Extended Fund Facility program, which aims to support Ukraine’s economic recovery and reform efforts.
**Tribunal Proposed to Prosecute Russia for Crime of Aggression**
A proposed tribunal would target Russia’s top political and military leadership for the crime of aggression. The tribunal, once established, would specifically target those responsible for the use of force against Ukraine. This move is seen as a significant step in holding Russia accountable for its actions.
**Russia Launched 47 Shahed-Type Attack Drones Against Ukraine**
In another escalation of Russian aggression, Russia launched 47 Shahed-type attack drones and decoys against Ukraine overnight on July 1. Ukrainian air defenses shot down 14 drones, while 33 were intercepted by electronic warfare or disappeared from radars.
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