Zelensky arrives in Reykjavík for Nordic Council session amid heightened security concerns

A special group will accompany Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during his visit to Iceland due to heightened security concerns. According to Karl Steinar Valsson, head of the international division of the National Commissioner of the Icelandic Police, all security measures on-site will be under Icelandic police responsibility.

Zelensky’s visit comes amidst increased security demands which have surrounded him since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He will attend the Nordic Council session in Reykjavík, which commences today and runs until Thursday, with over 600 guests expected to participate. The sessions will be held at the Parliament and the City Hall, prompting significant street closures and tight security in downtown Reykjavík. Vehicle and pedestrian access will be restricted within the closed-off area during the event, causing anticipated traffic delays, especially this afternoon when guests will travel to Þingvellir.

During his visit, Zelensky is scheduled to meet with Iceland’s Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson and President Guðni Th. Jóhannesson. He will also address the assembly of council members tomorrow.

Valsson mentioned that the notification of Zelensky’s arrival was received just a few weeks ago, and while police will generally not be armed, some security personnel will have weapons close to the meeting venue.

The session of the Nordic Council is themed “Peace and Security in the Arctic” and includes all 87 council members. Security and defense issues have been a prominent focus for the Nordic Council leadership over the past two years.