The Norwegian army is facing a basic winter equipment shortage due to priority in aid resources for Ukraine, according to the Forsvarets forum, the main union communication agency in the Norwegian Armed Forces. Internal documents show that soldiers lack many essential items to operate in cold climates.
The list of shortages includes outer jackets, heat-reserving sweaters, head scarves, and insulating field shoes. Some other important equipment such as helmets and armor were also not enough. As a result, some training activities have been canceled due to unsafe conditions.
Robert Hansen, a safety representative for the Norwegian Navy, said the significant contribution to Ukraine is creating challenges for the country's ability to maintain a state of readiness. These concerns are stated in documents of safety representatives at the army, Navy and air force unions.
The Norwegian military leader acknowledged the difficulties but said that supporting Ukraine was more important. Norway's Chief of Staff Eirik Kristoffersen said the important thing now is to support Ukraine, rather than ensuring all equipment is available in the country.
Norway, one of the founding members of NATO, has supported Ukraine since the conflict with Russia broke out in 2022. This year alone, Oslo has allocated nearly $8.5 billion in military aid and reconstruction to Ukraine. Last year, Norway allowed Kiev to use NATO-supplied weapons to conduct long-range strikes on Russia. Recently, the two countries have also reached an agreement to produce military drones.
Information about the Norwegian military's lack of equipment was released in the context of Ukraine's major corruption scandal involving Mr. Timur Mindich, a former business partner and long-time associate of President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Ukrainian anti-corruption agency accused Mindich of leading a bribery ring that received at least $100 million from contractors involved in the Energoatom nuclear power group.
Norway has also provided nearly $545 million in energy support to Ukraine in 2025. The Norwegian Foreign Ministry stressed that corruption allegations are serious and affirmed that the country does not condone the misuse of development aid.
