Zelenskyy announced the outcomes of the NB8 summit and the strengthening of support for Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that cooperation with the countries of Northern Europe and the Baltic states is yielding tangible results in bringing peace closer and strengthening security in Europe. He made these remarks following the Ukraine–Northern Europe and Baltic States Summit, which took place in Tallinn.
The meeting was attended by Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, Icelandic Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir, Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs, Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gar Støre, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.
According to Zelenskyy, effective cooperation within European frameworks creates the conditions for achieving practical results. He recalled the Ukraine–E3 meeting, ongoing contacts with the United States, and preparations for upcoming summits of the European Union, NATO and the G7.
During the summit, the parties focused on three key areas. These included stepping up diplomatic efforts, meeting Ukraine’s air defence needs, and further contributions to the PURL programme. They also discussed joint work on establishing European anti-ballistic defence and preparations for European Union meetings, at which it is planned to open all negotiation clusters for Ukraine.
Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal condemned the Russian attacks on Ukraine’s civilian and critical infrastructure and stressed that they would not affect the partners’ determination to support Kyiv. According to him, it is necessary to develop cooperation between defence industrial complexes, deepen interaction between the armed forces and increase joint production.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre noted that Ukraine has strengthened its position on the battlefield. He confirmed Norway’s readiness to continue providing assistance and to support efforts to achieve peace. Among the priorities, he cited strengthening air defence, protection against ballistic missiles, support for the energy system, and humanitarian needs ahead of winter.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that Europe must strengthen its own defence capabilities and invest in innovation. She emphasised the importance of Ukraine’s experience for the development of defence technologies and the rearmament of European states.
Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo described Ukraine’s survival as a key security priority for Europe. He noted that sanctions continue to have an impact on Russia and stressed the need to open all negotiation chapters regarding Ukraine’s accession to the European Union before the summer recess.
Iceland’s Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir confirmed continued support for Ukraine, emphasising shared European values, respect for borders and international law.
Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs drew attention to the need to develop anti-drone capabilities in the Baltic states and countries bordering Russia. He also stated Latvia’s readiness to make new contributions to the PURL programme.
Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė emphasised the importance of NATO’s presence on the Alliance’s eastern flank and noted that Ukraine possesses unique experience that could be useful to other states.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson emphasised that support for Ukraine is an investment in the security and future of the whole of Europe. In his words, increasing pressure on Russia influences its future decisions and strengthens the positions of partners.