From NATO to finance minister: Stoltenberg defends Zelensky amid $100 mn corruption row in Ukraine

Norwegian Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg — returning to his old post nearly 30 years later — defended Ukraine as it faces a $100 million corruption probe engulfing senior officials in Kyiv. Speaking to reporters in Brussels, Stoltenberg said the “right response” is not to reduce aid but to “continue substantial economic and military support” while helping Ukraine tackle corruption. He praised President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying he “really works hard to fight corruption.” Stoltenberg also struck a humorous tone about his political comeback, joking that he has “moved backwards” in life by returning to the same role he held 29 years ago.