OSLO — Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held political talks in Oslo focused on strengthening Ukraine’s air-defence capabilities and preparing for the coming winter.

Zelenskyy travelled to Norway ahead of the funeral of King Harald V and used the visit for discussions with the Norwegian government. The meeting took place on September 8 and centred on Ukraine’s urgent military and civilian requirements.

A major subject was air defence. Ukrainian authorities have been seeking additional interceptor missiles and stronger protection against missile and drone attacks, particularly as the country prepares for another difficult winter.

Støre said Ukraine faces an increasingly challenging situation, with attacks on homes and critical infrastructure intensifying in recent months. Norway intends to maintain pressure on Russia while continuing to support Ukraine.

The two leaders also discussed Norway’s contribution to international efforts aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s air-defence network. European countries are working together to improve protection against ballistic and other long-range missile threats.

Norway’s support is particularly significant because winter conditions can place additional pressure on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Previous Russian attacks have repeatedly targeted electricity generation, transmission systems and other critical facilities.

The meeting therefore also examined civilian and energy assistance. Norway has previously provided substantial support to help Ukraine maintain essential energy services during winter, and the two sides discussed Ukraine’s requirements for the coming season.

Another part of the talks involved cooperation with European defence companies. Støre and Zelenskyy met representatives from the European defence industry to discuss the development of advanced systems capable of countering ballistic missiles.

The Norwegian government says closer European cooperation is necessary to strengthen both Ukraine’s defence capabilities and Europe’s own long-term security.

The discussions come at a time when Ukraine is preparing for another winter under continuing military pressure. Protecting electricity infrastructure, homes and other essential facilities remains a major challenge.

Norway has also been working with European partners on longer-term defence initiatives rather than relying solely on short-term assistance.

The Oslo meeting consequently combined immediate military needs with longer-term planning for air defence and European security cooperation.

For Ukraine, additional air-defence capabilities could be particularly important in limiting damage to civilian infrastructure during the winter months. For Norway and its European partners, the discussions underline the importance of maintaining coordinated support as the war continues.

The meeting reinforced Norway’s commitment to supporting Ukraine while strengthening broader European cooperation against missile and drone threats.