The Russian embassy in Oslo expressed its opposition to Norway’s decision to allow the US aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford to be stationed in its waters for four days. The USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest warship, is 333 meters long, 76 meters high and has a weight of about 100,000 tons. The ship carries a crew of 4,500 and 90 planes and helicopters. The carrier is expected to take part in various joint exercises with the Norwegian military, making Oslo the ship’s first port of call.
The Norwegian Armed Forces issued a press release stating that the carrier’s visit provides a unique opportunity to enhance cooperation with the United States. They plan to hold several exercises with the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Norwegian Special Forces. Anticipating Russia’s reaction, Prime Minister Jonas Gar Stoor took a firm pro-NATO stance and welcomed the military exercises in Norwegian waters.
In response to the carrier’s presence, the Russian embassy in Oslo criticized Norway’s decision and referred to it as an illogical and harmful show of force. They further stated that there are no issues in the north that require military intervention and that Russia poses no direct military threat to Norway. Despite the Kremlin’s disapproval, Norway continues to demonstrate its commitment and support to NATO’s presence at sea.