Denmark, Sweden, and Norway buying weapons for Ukraine through new NATO initiative

Denmark is now joining forces with Sweden and Norway to support a new initiative within NATO, aimed at securing American weapons for Ukraine.

The initiative, launched by the USA and NATO, is intended to facilitate the rapid delivery of military equipment, including ammunition for the Patriot air defense system. Denmark has initially decided to contribute approximately 580 million Danish kroner.

The initiative consists of a series of weapon packages put together by the USA in collaboration with NATO and Ukraine. The goal is to address Ukraine’s urgent needs in the face of ongoing Russian attacks, especially from the air.

Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen describes the new initiative as “an important element in Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s full-scale invasion.” He emphasizes that Denmark – together with Sweden and Norway – fully supports the American initiative and underscores the significance of transatlantic cooperation.

“Speed is absolutely crucial. That’s why we will make our contribution available immediately. If there is a need for additional funding among the Ukrainians at a later point, we are willing to consider that as well,” says the defense minister.

Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen highlights that Denmark’s involvement strengthens both Ukraine’s position and the European responsibility for military support: “By financing a weapons package alongside Norway and Sweden, Denmark is providing Ukraine with highly sought-after weapon systems, emphasizing once again that the Scandinavian countries are close and reliable allies in NATO.”

The Danish contribution is made through the Ukraine Fund and will be a part of the so-called Prioritized Ukraine Requirement List (PURL). The combined contribution from Denmark, Sweden, and Norway will be able to fund American weapons for approximately 500 million USD, and it is expected that the Danish contribution will particularly focus on air defense and artillery.