Norwegian fuel firm suspends supplies to US navy amid tensions
The Norwegian company Haltbakk Bunkers has decided to halt fuel deliveries to American armed forces in Norway and their ships docking at Norwegian ports. This move is in reaction to recent events at the White House and Donald Trump's conduct towards the President of Ukraine.
As one of the largest Norwegian fuel suppliers, Haltbakk Bunkers will cease supplying the US Navy. This decision responds to Friday's events at the White House, where tensions escalated between Donald Trump, JD Vance, and Volodymyr Zelensky. The Ukrainian president's visit to the US concluded with Trump asking the Ukrainian delegation to leave, breaking off talks, and cancelling the planned press conference.
A Norwegian blow to the USA
"No fuel for the Americans!" the Norwegian company announced on social media. In their statement, representatives of Haltbakk Bunkers highlighted, "we witnessed the biggest spectacle ever televised live by the President and Vice President of the USA."
"The refusal to supply fuel takes immediate effect and applies to American ships docking at Norwegian ports," the company's communication stressed. The statement concludes with the words: "Glory to Ukraine!".
Gunnar Gran, owner of Haltbakk Bunkers, acknowledged that this decision might not significantly affect the American armed forces, as fuel is supplied through intermediaries.
"In 2024, we delivered about 660,000 gallons to them. It's simply moral support," Gran explained in a conversation with the Kystens Næringsliv portal.
Reaction from the Norwegian government
Internet reports suggest that the American submarine USS Delaware (SSN-791) faced refuelling issues in Norway and was forced to turn back. The Norwegian Ministry of Defence addressed the matter, admitting they were aware of the reports and stating that "this is not in line with the policy of the Norwegian government."
The Norwegian Ministry of Defence assures that it maintains "close and strong defence cooperation" with the USA. Norway's Minister of Defence, Tore Sandvik, affirmed that "American forces will continue to receive the supply and support they require from Norway".
Source: X, Kystens Næringsliv
