- Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store Says Incident Highlights Risks Faced by Ukrainian President Amid Ongoing War
OSLO: A plane carrying Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky from Moldova to Norway was reportedly close to being struck by a drone while taking off, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said Wednesday.
“His flight was almost hit by a drone when it was taking off from Moldova. That is the reality he lives in,” Store told Norwegian public broadcaster NRK, without providing further details about the reported incident.
Zelensky arrived in Oslo on Tuesday evening to attend the funeral of Norway’s King Harald, who died on August 28 at the age of 89.
Talks Focus on Military and Humanitarian Support
Following his arrival, Zelensky held talks with Prime Minister Store, Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg and Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.
The discussions focused on Norway’s continued support for Ukraine, including military assistance, air-defence capabilities and civilian aid, amid the ongoing conflict.
Norway has been among Ukraine’s significant European supporters, with air-defence systems and other forms of military assistance playing an important role in strengthening Ukraine’s ability to protect its territory and population.
Zelensky Attends King Harald’s Funeral
On Wednesday, Zelensky joined numerous international leaders and foreign dignitaries at the funeral of King Harald, paying tribute to the late Norwegian monarch.
The funeral brought together representatives from several countries, reflecting the international significance of the Norwegian royal family and King Harald’s long reign.
Ukrainian President Heads to Canada
Following the funeral, Zelensky departed Norway for Canada, where he was scheduled to hold talks with Canadian leaders, Prime Minister Store told NRK.
The reported drone incident adds another stark reminder of the security challenges surrounding the Ukrainian president’s international travel as the war continues.
BY: The Times Union
