Norway Allocates $285.6 Million for Humanitarian Support in Ukraine and Moldova
On March 27, 2025, the Norwegian government announced a significant humanitarian support package amounting to 3 billion Norwegian krone (approximately $285.6 million). The funding is intended for assistance in Ukraine and for Ukrainian refugees in Moldova. This move underscores Norway's ongoing commitment to providing aid amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Continued Russian Aggression Highlights Need for Aid
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide addressed the pressing humanitarian needs during the announcement, noting that "Russia’s attacks on civilian infrastructure, electricity supplies, hospitals, schools, and homes have continued with full force." As a result, many Ukrainians face dire circumstances, forcing them to evacuate their homes on a daily basis.
Eide stated, "At a time when international humanitarian financing for Ukraine is declining, Norway will continue to be a reliable donor to efforts to protect the civilian population and save lives." His comments reflect a call to action as the situation in Ukraine remains precarious, with an increasing number of civilian casualties reported.
The United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine has documented over 12,654 civilian deaths and more than 29,392 injuries since February 24, 2022, as a consequence of ongoing military operations.
Distribution of Humanitarian Funds
The allocated funds will be utilized in various critical areas. They are set to support the United Nations' humanitarian response in both Ukraine and Moldova, as well as organizations like the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The funds will facilitate medical evacuations and provision of essential aid. Additional funds will be reserved for future humanitarian needs.
Support for Energy Infrastructure
Eide, along with Norwegian Minister of Labour and Social Inclusion Tonje Brenna, recently visited Ukraine from March 26 to 27, where they focused on tangible support measures. During their visit, they provided a hybrid solar power plant to the Kharkiv Municipal Clinical Hospital No. 8. This system is designed to enhance energy resilience for critical hospital operations, particularly in light of frequent power outages due to military strikes.
"We're proud to support Ukraine's efforts in creating resilient and equitable energy access for all," Eide remarked, highlighting the importance of reliable energy sources for operating rooms and intensive care departments.
Ongoing Commitment and Aid Increase
Norway has emerged as one of Ukraine's steadfast allies since the onset of the full-scale invasion in 2022. Earlier in March, leaders of the Norwegian parliament approved a plan to increase aid to Ukraine, raising the total commitment to 85 billion Norwegian krone (approximately $7.8 billion) for 2025, reflecting a surge of 50 billion Norwegian krone ($4.6 billion).
As the conflict continues to disrupt lives and displace communities, Norway's financial commitment is part of broader international efforts to address humanitarian needs in the region.