UK and Norway draw up defence pact, sending signal of solidarity with Europe over Ukraine

The UK has begun talks to draw up a defence pact with Norway, with the aim of strengthening both domestic and European security and sending a clear deterrence message to Russia.

The plan comes at a time of a widening rift between the US and European countries over how to end the war in Ukraine.

On a visit to British troops in Norway's High North, 400km inside the Artic Circle, Defence Secretary John Healey said the UK was "determined to play a leadership role on European security, supporting the foundations for our security and prosperity at home and showing our adversaries that we are united in our determination to protect our interests".

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Mr Healey also visited a border post near the Norwegian border with Russia, alongside Norwegian defence minister Tore Sandvik.

He gave firm assurances of the UK's deepening ties with Norway, stating the nation "remains one of the UK's most important allies".

"We will create a new era of defence partnership to bring us closer than ever before as we tackle increasing threats, strengthen Nato, and boost our security in the High North," he said.

The pair also discussed shared security concerns, a commitment to deterring Russian threats and stepping up support for Ukraine.

The visit comes as the US moves away from military funding for Ukraine as it initiates direct talks with Russia – excluding Kyiv – which has angered Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky.

The hope is the new agreement will help bolster defences on NATO's northern flank. The UK and Norway also play a key role in training Ukrainian recruits and the Ukrainian navy.

The two men also visited the UK ship RFA Proteus, docked in the Norwegian port of Bodø, ahead of exercises in the Baltic Sea. 

The vessel carries drones and remotely operated vehicles to monitor and protect vital undersea infrastructure such as gas pipelines and cables.

The UK and Norway work closely together under Nato's Operation Baltic Sentry operation, with the UK contributing Rivet Joint and P-8 Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft.

UK troops are currently operating out of Camp Viking in Norway's High North for annual Arctic training.