First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska met with Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway and expressed gratitude for supporting the people of Ukraine.
“Norway ranks among the top three countries providing the largest volumes of military assistance to Ukraine in 2025. Your humanitarian and civilian support help us rebuild hospitals, schools, kindergartens, and residential buildings destroyed by Russian occupiers,” said the First Lady.
The President’s wife noted that Norway is one of the most active members of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, which includes 42 countries, the Council of Europe, and the European Union. Norway supports initiatives under the Bring Kids Back UA framework — from developing expert documents on best rehabilitation standards to engaging highly qualified specialists.
“Thanks to this great joint effort, 1,713 Ukrainian children have already returned home. And then the next important work begins, as it is necessary to create social housing for youth, supported living for young people with disabilities, conditions for foster families, and psychological rehabilitation camps for children and adolescents who have experienced deportation. We are also working together on all of this,” Olena Zelenska said.
The First Lady expressed gratitude for the treatment of Ukrainian warriors at Ullevål Hospital and for Norwegian educational institutions joining the Global Coalition of Ukrainian Studies.
Together with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha, the President’s wife met with Prime Minister of Norway Jonas Gahr Støre and thanked him for his principled stance in supporting Ukraine.
“Norway’s contribution to strengthening our air defense and energy sector is invaluable. Eighty thousand Ukrainians have found refuge and support in Norway. I am especially grateful for your personal participation in the recent meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. We are thankful to Norway for making the rescue of children and childhood as much of a priority as it is for Ukraine,” the First Lady emphasized.