**Norway to Help Ukraine Cover Potential $1.08 Billion Gas Deficit**
In a major boost to Ukraine’s energy security, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Norway has agreed to help cover a potential one billion euro ($1.08 billion) gas deficit. The commitment was made during a meeting between Zelensky and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store in Vilnius on June 2.
The agreement comes as Ukraine’s energy infrastructure continues to be targeted by Russian forces, leading to power and heat shortages across the country. Russia has attacked numerous facilities of Ukrgasvydobuvannya, Ukraine’s largest gas producer and part of the state Naftogaz Group, resulting in a significant loss of almost 50% of gas production.
**A Billion Euro Solution**
According to Zelensky, Norway has agreed to help cover any potential gas deficit that may arise due to ongoing Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. The commitment is worth a billion euros, which would go towards ensuring that Ukraine’s population has access to sufficient gas supplies during the winter months.
“We have found half of what we needed, but we were missing another half,” Zelensky explained during an online press conference. “I’ll put it this way: we’re talking about a volume worth a billion euros — that’s what I’m discussing with the Norwegian prime minister.”
**Continued Support for Ukraine**
The meeting between Zelensky and Gahr Store also focused on continued support for Ukraine, including strengthening the country’s air defense, encouraging direct investment in Ukraine’s defense industry, and increasing pressure on Russia. Norway has been a significant supporter of Ukraine since the beginning of the conflict, having provided over $4.5 billion in humanitarian, financial, and military aid.
**A Historic Visit**
This commitment comes after Crown Prince Haakon of Norway made a historic visit to Ukraine on May 20, marking the first time a member of the Norwegian royal family had visited the country during Russia’s invasion. The visit was seen as a significant gesture of support for Ukraine and its people.
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