Kirkenes marches in solidarity with Ukraine as the full-scale war enters its fifth year
The northernmost of the mass demonstrations held across Europe on February 24 took place in Kirkenes, the Norwegian border town neighbouring Russia’s heavily militarised Kola Peninsula. From bases there, Russian bombers regularly launch cruise missile attacks against civilians in Ukraine.
The torchlight procession was organised by local labour unions, political parties and the Church City Mission. Organisers said the demonstration aimed to show that the border town stands firmly with Ukraine — and that the outcome of the war will shape the future security architecture of Europe’s northern regions.
The march ended outside Russia’s diplomatic mission in Kirkenes, where participants observed a minute of silence to honour Ukrainians killed during 12 years of war.
Around 200 people joined the procession, including Ukrainians, Russians living in exile, Norwegians and other nationalities.
Member of Parliament Sigurd Rafaelsen told the crowd that Kirkenes stands united against Russia’s war.
“Norway stands with Ukraine,” he said.
“If Russia’s war of aggression were to succeed, it would send a dangerous signal: that borders can be changed by force, that authoritarian regimes can bring neighbouring countries to their knees. We cannot accept that.”
Mayor Magnus Mæland called for increased support for Ukraine.
“They are fighting for Europe. Ukraine is fighting for the right to be a free country. Ukraine is fighting for its existence. Here on the border with Russia, we stand with Ukraine,” Mæland said.
Kirkenes City Hall, located across the street from Russia’s Consulate General, was illuminated in the blue and yellow colours of the Ukrainian flag. Trees nearby were decorated with blue-and-yellow hearts.
For 2026, Norway will provide Ukraine with NOK 85 billion (€7.5 billion) in support. Of this amount, NOK 70 billion will go toward military assistance and NOK 15 billion toward civilian aid.
On February 24, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre met President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv. Støre said the Norwegian government will prioritise funding for drones, air defence systems and artillery ammunition.
“As Ukraine now enters its fifth year of full-scale war, it is vital that Ukraine receives the military support it needs to continue defending itself,” the prime minister said in a statement.
Støre visited Kyiv on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion together with the heads of state and government of the Nordic and Baltic countries.
“This visit sends an important signal that the Nordic and Baltic countries stand together in supporting Ukraine,” he said.
