Speech at the Medal Ceremony for Operation Gungne:
By Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik
Dear soldiers,
Norway’s support to Ukraine through Ellisiv – Operation Gungne – is among the most important efforts we undertake today. For Ukraine. And for our own security.
Today, you are receiving the Armed Forces Medal for International Service. This marks the first time the medal is awarded for your contributions to Operation Gungne, which has been ongoing since 2023.
Following Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its full-scale invasion in 2022, Norway has played a significant role in supporting Ukraine’s defence. We have contributed through the training and education of Ukrainian soldiers, through donations of equipment, and through financial support.
And we will continue.
(Photo by Synne Kvam / Forsvarsdepartementet/Ministry of Defence)
Russia’s assault on Ukraine represents a direct threat to peace and security across Europe. Missions such as Operation Gungne are essential to protecting against that threat.
Since its launch in April 2023, Operation Gungne has been led by Home Guard District 12 in Trøndelag. Most of the soldiers you have trained arrived with frontline combat experience from Ukraine.
I am proud that the Home Guard — you — have shared your knowledge and expertise with our Ukrainian partners here on Norwegian soil, in Trøndelag. The specialist training you have provided is of high quality, something Ukraine both recognises and deeply values.
Yet this has not only been a one-way transfer of knowledge. You — and we — have also learned from them: from their frontline experience in a modern conflict that many have described as “World War I with drones.”
You have brought those lessons home, strengthening our own defence and improving the training of subsequent Ukrainian contingents. You have taught them to fight more effectively, survive longer, maintain combat capability, and work together with greater efficiency.
Ukrainian authorities are profoundly grateful.
Einar Gerhardsen once said that while we are a peace-loving people, we value freedom above all. When choosing between peace and freedom, we choose freedom.
Ukraine fights for its freedom — and for our security.
As I travel across the country, I sometimes remind people of the harsh realities of the battlefield in Ukraine.
You need no reminder.
Through Operation Gungne, you are among those in Norway who have come closest to the war experiences Ukrainian soldiers carry — and many will return to. When these soldiers go back to the front, they do so with new skills and knowledge that you have provided.
Ukraine fights every day for its independence and its freedom.
Your efforts have strengthened theirs. Morale can be shaped by knowing someone believes in you — and supports you.
I am convinced that Norway’s support truly makes a difference.
Ukraine urgently needs air defence against Shahed drones and missiles targeting cities far from the front. Norway is contributing.
Ukraine must hold the front line — here, too, you make a difference, and Norway will supply artillery and essential equipment.
And we must continue measures that weaken Putin economically. Norway contributes through sanctions and through support to Ukrainian industry.
Putin does not seek peace.
We want Ukraine to regain peace.
That is why our support continues. War is costlier than peace.
That is why Operation Gungne will continue in 2026. That is why we are strengthening our Armed Forces.
These efforts matter.
If Ukraine were to lose, the world would become more dangerous for all of us.
No nation longs for peace more than Ukraine. We support all peace initiatives — but there will be no peace without Ukraine.
Whether your contribution has been in combat medicine, infantry squad leadership, basic sniper and operator training, individual combat techniques, drone piloting, military mental health, or in any other specialised field:
On behalf of the Norwegian government, I extend my sincere gratitude.
Thank you for your outstanding contribution in support of Ukraine.
You have shown that it is possible to make a real difference by training a substantial number of Ukrainian soldiers here in Trøndelag.
You have proven that international service can be carried out effectively from our own territory.
Thank you.