LONDON

Norway has approved direct sales of weapons and defense equipment from its defense industry to Ukraine and said the policy change took effect Jan. 1.

Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide stressed the importance of supporting Ukraine for Norwegian and European security.

"In the extraordinary security situation resulting from Russia's war of aggression, it is crucial that we continue to support Ukraine. Support for Ukraine is important for Norwegian and European security,” he said in a statement that was released Monday.

“We must plan for the possibility that the illegal war of aggression may be prolonged,” he said.

Defense Minister Bjorn Arild Gram said Norway will devote various types of equipment to facilitate the important role of “the defense industry in the current security policy situation.”

The export licenses for direct sales will only be permitted on an individual basis and will be rigorously assessed under strict and responsible frameworks under Norwegian export control regulations, according to the Foreign Ministry.

The Nordic state also pledged to provide Ukraine with additional support to strengthen its air defense and financially help the war-torn country increase its ammunition production as well as give financial support for health care and education sectors.

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said Norway will support Ukraine with $1.8 billion in military and humanitarian aid by the end of 2023 during a Nordic summit on Dec. 13.