Norwegian parliament member Peter Frölich has admitted that in 2023 he deliberately violated export restrictions to send drones with thermal cameras to Ukraine. Following this, the Norwegian government revised its rules, allowing the supply of civilian drones to Ukraine without special export licenses, provided they are not subject to export control.

This was reported by the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet, citing the Norwegian news agency NTB.

Frölich represents Norway's Conservative Party and currently chairs the parliamentary committee on foreign affairs and defense. In 2022, he co-founded the charity Fritt Ukraina ("Free Ukraine") with volunteers, which supplies equipment to the Ukrainian military.

In late summer 2023, the organization attempted to send a shipment of commercial drones with thermal cameras to Ukraine. However, Norwegian customs halted the cargo due to export restrictions in effect since the 1950s.

Volunteers asked the government to clarify the rules and allow the shipment, but did not receive a timely response.

According to the MP, the Ukrainian military's need for the equipment was critical, and delay could cost lives. Therefore, the organization decided to smuggle the drones despite the ban in force.

After the incident, Norway revised its export rules

As reported by Norwegian newspaper ABC Nyheter, citing Frölich's interview with NRK, the morning after sending the drones, the organization received a message that the government would expedite the matter.

Subsequently, the rules were changed. Norwegian citizens and organizations were given the possibility to legally send civilian drones to Ukraine that are not on lists of goods requiring special export control.

Norwegian government documents specify that civilian goods not in controlled categories may be exported to Ukraine even for military use without a special license. Licensing remains for defense products and certain dual-use items.

Thus, the changes simplified the transfer of commercial drones to the Ukrainian military, but did not remove overall control over exports of military equipment.

MP revealed the violation three years later

Frölich publicized the drone story in October 2026, including in his book "If War Comes – How to Make the Right Decisions in Times of Crisis".

In an interview with NRK, the politician explained that he does not encourage others to break the law, but considers his decision justified. He also clarified that it involved a violation of a government regulation, not a separate law.

Frölich emphasized that he does not regret his actions, as they helped provide the Ukrainian military with necessary equipment and drew the authorities' attention to outdated export restrictions.

Sources: Aftonbladet, ABC Nyheter, Norwegian Government - export rules to Ukraine