Nordic and Baltic nations, along with Poland, announced on Wednesday their intention to enhance support for Ukraine in the upcoming months. This will include bolstering the country’s defense industry and increasing the availability of ammunition.

In a joint statement, the leaders of Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Norway, Poland, and Sweden emphasized their commitment to strengthening deterrence and defense capabilities, including resilience against both conventional and hybrid threats. They also expressed intentions to expand sanctions against Russia and those who facilitate its aggression.

The leaders convened at the Swedish government’s retreat in Harpsund, located southwest of Stockholm, to discuss transatlantic relations, regional security collaboration, and a unified approach to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The prospect of Donald Trump serving a second presidential term has sparked concerns regarding the United States’ dedication to supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, as well as its role within NATO.

Many experts suggest that Europe may need to increase its defense spending and support for Ukraine’s military efforts following Trump’s inauguration in January.

The Nordic and Baltic countries, several of which share borders with Russia, are among Ukraine’s most significant supporters. According to the Kiel Institute’s Ukraine Support Tracker, aid from these regions and Poland amounts to approximately 24 billion euros, making them the second-largest contributors after the United States.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson emphasized in a separate statement that Europe must assume a larger role in ensuring its own security. He noted that this requires enhanced cooperation and sustained support for Ukraine, which is defending not only its own sovereignty but also the security of Europe as a whole in the long run.