Pro Russian campaign to stop Norway’s military funding for Ukraine ends abruptly – blames vandalism by Norwegians (English translation in the comments)

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1. Here’s an English translation of the article:

   The FOR Party Ends Advertising Campaign About Ukraine

   The political party Fred og Rettferdighet (FOR – Peace and Justice) has decided to end its advertising campaign about Ukraine on Oslo’s public transport system.

   According to party leader Marielle Leraand, the decision was made because Sporveien (Oslo’s public transport operator) was unable to uphold the agreement due to what she describes as “systematic, politically motivated vandalism” of the posters.
   Leraand claims the vandalism was carried out by individuals supporting NATO’s role in Ukraine and sees it as an example of intolerance towards freedom of expression and democratic debate.

   The ad agency JCDecaux, which handles ad placements, confirms the campaign is being discontinued across subways, stations, and Oslo Central Station. CEO Gisle Roness says the decision was made in light of the media controversy and that continuing the campaign would not be proportionate, even if they believe they acted correctly.

   FOR had paid half of the campaign’s cost upfront and will not have to pay the remainder, as the campaign was already nearly halfway through its scheduled run.

   Roness disagrees with Leraand’s claim that Sporveien failed to uphold the agreement, stating that Sporveien followed all regulations. He explained that there was a clause in the contract requiring JCDecaux to replace vandalized posters, which would have resulted in additional costs for FOR.

   Gina Scholz, head of communications at Sporveien, emphasized that FOR’s contract was with JCDecaux, and any contractual questions should be directed to them. She acknowledged there had been strong reactions and that some people had removed posters, but also stated they had encouraged respect for the legality of the campaign, even if many disagreed with its message.

   Leraand argues that the response to the campaign highlights how fragile the political consensus on war funding is and claims the vandalism represents a democratic deficit when critical voices are silenced. She strongly criticizes politicians who welcomed the campaign’s cancellation, calling it evidence of “war enthusiasm” evolving into political vigilantism against opponents.

   FOR now, plans to redirect the unused funds from the advertising contract to promote their message through other channels. Leraand says all options are open, but the party’s national congress will decide how the money will be used.

2. Awwwww.

3. Thank you, Norwegians 🫡

   >Leraand argues that the response to the campaign highlights how fragile the political consensus on war funding is

   …lol, delusional. It shows how unpopular their message is

4. Norway litterally has a border with Russia. You have to be utterly regarded to oppose supporting Ukraine. You want Russia to win and be on your border? Are you stupid or something?

5. It seems to me that opposing military funding for Ukraine is akin to approving russia’s depraved actions against its people.
   Lovely political party!

6. Norway don’t play nice with Russians.

7. Good.

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