The head of the Pentagon and the Norwegian Minister of Defense discussed Ukraine

Norwegian Defense Minister Bjorn Arild Gram visited the Pentagon and met with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. The discussion included the war in Ukraine. It was reported on the Pentagon website on Thursday, April 18.

It was indicated that during the meeting, Gram spoke about Norway’s recently presented long-term plan for the development of the defense sector in conditions “when Putin continues his merciless war against Ukraine.”

“Norway is one of our most capable and long-standing allies. We know we can always count on Norway, from your cooperation with the Minnesota National Guard to the Norwegian-developed NASAMS that provides air defense to our Ukrainian partners .Norway stands by the United States and supports its security principles and democratic values,” said US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

He emphasized that the connection between the countries is even more important today, as Putin continues his merciless war against Ukraine. The head of the Pentagon thanked Gram for long-term assistance to Ukraine.

“We applaud you for leading the coalition maritime capabilities engagement group in the United Kingdom. You have also provided significant support to the Air Force Capabilities Coalition and the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Capabilities Coalitions,” said Lloyd Austin.

Austin also applauded Norway for its plan to meet NATO’s commitment to spend at least two percent of GDP on defense this calendar year.

The former President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, criticized Europe for insufficient aid to Ukraine. He believes that “the safety and strength of Ukraine” should be “more important for Europe than for the United States.”