**Ukraine and Norway Discuss Air Defense Cooperation**
Ukraine is working closely with the Norwegian defense company Kongsberg to improve its air defenses. On January 16, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov met with Eirik Lie, executive vice president of Kongsberg Gruppen ASA.
The two discussed ways to increase Ukraine’s anti-drone systems and potentially produce them locally in Ukraine. They also talked about integrating Ukrainian-made air defense systems into the Norwegian NASAMS system.
**Ukraine Seeks More Air Defense Capabilities**
Ukraine has been asking its international partners for more air defense capabilities after Russia stepped up its airstrikes on energy infrastructure. The country is hoping to get these new systems soon, with Norway providing significant support.
Norway has allocated $2.1 billion for military aid to Ukraine in 2025 and has been one of Ukraine’s main supporters in Europe.
**Russian Strikes Continue**
Despite the ongoing talks between Ukraine and Russia, Russian forces continue to launch airstrikes on Ukrainian targets. On January 16, Ukrainian air defenses shot down 34 out of 55 drones launched by Russia, while another 18 were lost.
The previous night, a Ukrainian drone strike hit a Russian gunpowder factory in the village of Kuzmino-Gat.
**International Support**
Several international leaders visited Ukraine on January 16. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Kyiv and is set to sign a “100 Year Partnership” treaty with Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked outgoing US President Joe Biden for his support during the conflict.
**Russia’s Military Situation**
Ukraine’s military now has 880,000 soldiers defending the country against Russia’s 600,000 troops concentrated in specific areas. Ukrainian forces also captured two North Korean soldiers operating with Russian forces in Ukraine’s Kursk Oblast.