Norway’s government affirms it will continue fueling U.S. Navy vessels despite a private Norwegian company’s boycott pledge over President Trump’s dispute with Ukrainian leader Zelensky.
Top Takeaways
- Norwegian fuel supplier Haltbakk Bunkers announced it would halt fuel deliveries to the U.S. Navy until President Trump is “gone”
- The boycott was triggered by a White House incident involving President Trump, Ukrainian President Zelensky, and Vice President JD Vance
- Norway’s Defense Ministry has officially stated that U.S. forces will continue receiving necessary fuel and support despite the private company’s stance
- The supplier’s boycott appears largely symbolic as they lack a fixed contract with the U.S. government
- Norway remains committed to its NATO obligations and defense cooperation with the United States
Private Fuel Supplier Takes Political Stand
Norwegian fuel supplier Haltbakk Bunkers has publicly announced it will cease all fuel deliveries to the U.S. Navy until President Donald Trump leaves office. The company’s decision follows recent tensions between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House. According to reports, the Norwegian supplier, which provided 3 million liters of fuel to American warships in 2024, characterized the White House incident as a “sh*tshow” in social media posts and expressed explicit support for Ukraine in the ongoing conflict.
The company’s owner made the boycott announcement in clear terms, stating that Haltbakk Bunkers would not deliver a “single liter” of fuel to the U.S. Navy until U.S. President Donald Trump “is gone.” The fuel supplier noted that it employs many Ukrainian workers and wanted to demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine following the White House incident between President Trump, Vice President JD Vance and President Zelensky, leading to the Ukrainian leader’s early departure from the meeting.
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The major Norwegian marine fuel company Haltbakk Bunkers has halted fuel supplies to U.S. Navy ships and called on other companies to follow its lead. pic.twitter.com/dIYElQLLA4
— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) March 1, 2025
Norway’s Government Maintains U.S. Military Support
Despite the private company’s boycott announcement, Norway’s official stance remains firmly in support of its defense obligations to the United States. Defense Minister Tore Sandvik clarified that the private supplier’s decision does not align with Norwegian government policy. This reaffirmation underscores Norway’s commitment to NATO allies regardless of private sector actions or political disagreements.
“The U.S. and Norway maintain a close and strong defense cooperation. American forces will continue to receive the supply and support they require from Norway,” Sandvik said.
This clear statement helps ensure that operational readiness for U.S. naval forces in the region will not be affected by the dispute.
Symbolic Gesture With Limited Impact
Experts point out that Haltbakk Bunkers’ boycott may be more symbolic than consequential. The company’s CEO, Gunnar Gran, acknowledged the largely symbolic nature of their stance, revealing that the company does not maintain a fixed contract with the U.S. government. This admission suggests the practical impact on U.S. naval operations would be minimal, as alternative suppliers can fulfill fuel requirements through Norway’s established defense logistics channels.
The boycott comes amid Norway’s continued support for Ukraine, with the Nordic nation recently joining Denmark, Sweden, and Finland in announcing additional aid packages to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. The Norwegian government appears to be navigating a careful path that honors international defense agreements while still showing support for Ukraine through official channels.
Broader Implications for U.S.-European Relations
The incident highlights growing concerns among some European allies about the U.S. commitment to Ukraine and broader transatlantic relationships. The private company’s boycott, while limited in practical effect, represents sentiment among portions of the European public regarding the recent White House tensions. Defense analysts note this reflects a broader challenge for NATO as member nations navigate differing domestic pressures while maintaining alliance obligations.
The incident serves as a reminder that while private entities may take political positions, national governments typically prioritize long-standing security partnerships, especially within the NATO alliance framework where mutual defense obligations take precedence over temporary diplomatic tensions.
