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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s aircraft was nearly hit by a drone while taking off from Moldova, Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre has said.
Store made the disclosure while speaking to Norwegian broadcaster NRK on Wednesday, following Zelenskyy’s arrival in Oslo. The Ukrainian leader travelled from Moldova to Norway to attend the funeral of King Harald V.
“His plane was almost hit by a drone as it was taking off from Moldova. That is the reality he is facing,” Store said.
The Norwegian prime minister said the incident reflected the security challenges surrounding Zelenskyy’s international movements as Ukraine continues its war against Russia.
Norwegian Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg, who attended a meeting with Zelenskyy, also confirmed that the Ukrainian president spoke about difficulties during his departure from Moldova.
“He told us about it last night when we had a meeting with him. I don’t dare go into the details about it, but he was delayed, and there were some threats against the plane,” Stoltenberg said.
Stoltenberg previously served as NATO secretary-general when Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
During his visit to Oslo, Zelenskyy met with Norwegian officials to discuss the ongoing war, Ukraine’s military needs and additional air defence support.
Store said Norway and Ukraine were exploring ways to increase air defence assistance while also considering whether cooperation between their industries could help Ukraine develop its own systems.
“Additional air defence for Ukraine” was among the key issues discussed during the meetings, Store said, as Kyiv continues to seek stronger protection against aerial attacks.
The reported incident adds to the security risks Zelenskyy faces, whose foreign trips have often required heightened protection because of the ongoing conflict. His visit to Norway came as Ukrainian officials continue diplomatic efforts to secure military support from international partners.
