– The Russian warfare has cynically destroyed important parts of the infrastructure in Ukraine. In order to get food, water and medicine and wounded Ukrainians to hospital, Ukraine is completely dependent on the functioning of the road network, says Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt. – We know that these bridges will help Ukraine, while this does not weaken our own bridge preparedness, says Transport Minister Jon-Ivar Nygård.
The trailers that are currently driving from the Swedish Road Administration’s emergency warehouse at Bjørkelangen are the first of a total of 32 trailers that are loaded with ten shower sets that Norway is sending to Ukraine. Both the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Minister for Transport were present to witness the broadcast.
The Norwegian Public Roads Administration is responsible for the delivery. The bridges, which have a total value of NOK 30 million, are financed from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ humanitarian budget.
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– The war in Ukraine requires Europe to stand together. We want to contribute when we are asked, with what Norway has the expertise and capacity for, says Nygård.
The Russian warfare has destroyed important parts of the infrastructure in Ukraine, including several hundred bridges and 25,100 kilometers of road.
Still great need for help
– The war in Ukraine can last a long time and we are prepared to have to contribute for a long time. In a short time, the government will announce new contributions. This will be in addition to approx. The 14 billion we have given or have promised to give this year and next year. Thus, Norway will continue to be among the leading contributors to Ukraine. Because even though we have given and give a great deal, the needs are almost endless, says the foreign minister.
The Russian warfare in Ukraine is hitting the civilian population hard. In the first phase of the war, we prioritized contributing food, medicine and goods that could arrive quickly. As a result of Russia’s extensive attacks on civilian infrastructure and the liberation of more areas, the need to repair damaged roads and bridges increases.
Read more about Norwegian support to Ukraine here: Norwegian support to Ukraine and neighboring countries – regjeringen.no
