The Prime Minister´s speech at the commemoration of National Flag Day of Ukraine
Speech/statement | Date: 23/08/2026 | Office of the Prime Minister
By Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre (Kyiv)
Dear Mr. President, dear all of Ukraine. When Norway looks to Ukraine, we see courage and determination. We see a nation whose spirit remains unbroken despite enormous suffering. Today, Ukraine raises its flag. Tomorrow it marks its independence in wartime. Both are acts of defiance, but also of hope.
Ukraine is fighting for freedom, independence and the right to decide its future. These are not Ukrainian principles alone. They are the foundations for every democracy, also for mine. Defended in Ukraine, they are defended for all of us.
Tens of thousands of Ukrainians now live in my country, Norway. They work in our hospitals, our schools and our businesses. They are colleagues, neighbors and classmates. Through them, and through our close cooperation with Ukraine, we have come to know your country far better than before. Not only through news reports, but through people.
Ukraine, dear friends, is not defined by this war. It is a country with a rich history. A culture that has survived every attempt to erase it. That is worth saying plainly on a day like this.
Ukrainians know what their nation is worth. They have shown they will preserve it. In Europe, it is easy to take such things for granted.Ukraine has reminded us not to.
We should not speak about resilience without naming its price. Air raid sirens. Nights in shelters. Funerals. Families separated for millions of Ukrainians. This is dramatic daily life.
Norway's support will continue. Backed by all parties in Parliament. In 2027 we will maintain support at the same level as this year, approximately 9 billion USD. The support is broad: military, humanitarian and financial.
It will follow Ukrainian priorities. Ukraine defines the needs, and we do what we can to respond to them. Supporting and rebuilding Ukraine is not assistance alone. It is an investment in Europe's own security.
Our commitment to Ukraine is long term. It does not end with this war. We support Ukraine's efforts to secure accountability and uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency and good governance.
Later today, Norway and Ukraine will sign a declaration of strategic partnership. It puts our cooperation on a long-term footing.
It is a partnership of mutual benefit. Mr. president, Ukraine has a lot to offer. In defense. In technology. In building a resilient society. We intend to learn and draw from your experiences.
So, on your Flag Day: congratulations.
Norway stands with you. Slava Ukraini.