Russia Includes Norway in List of Unfriendly Countries; Norwegian Foreign Minister Responds
Norway has been added to the list of foreign states that are engaging in "unfriendly actions against Russia's diplomatic and consular representations abroad." This was reported by RIA Novosti, citing a statement from the press service of the Russian government.
By including Norway on this list, Moscow imposes restrictions or potentially even a complete ban on the hiring of personnel within embassies, consulates, and agencies in Russia. According to the Russian government's decision, Norway will now be allowed to employ 27 individuals in Russia.
Later, Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt commented on this decision in an interview with TV 2, stating that there are no grounds to suggest that Oslo is exhibiting unfriendly behavior towards Russia. At the same time, the politician emphasized that there is "nothing surprising" in Russia's decision.
In addition to Norway, the list also includes Australia, Albania, Andorra, the United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories, EU member states, Iceland, Canada, Liechtenstein, the Federated States of Micronesia, Monaco, New Zealand, South Korea, San Marino, North Macedonia, Singapore, the United States, Taiwan (China), Ukraine, Montenegro, Switzerland, and Japan.