UPDATE on Norwegian Marine Fuel company no longer refueling U.S. Navy vessels - Haltbakk Bunkers

As of March 15, 2025, the latest update on Haltbakk Bunkers, a Norwegian marine fuel company announcing it will no longer refuel U.S. Navy vessels, is as follows:

On March 1, 2025, Haltbakk Bunkers, a privately held marine fuel supplier based in Aure, Norway, declared it would cease providing fuel to U.S. military forces and their ships docking in Norwegian ports. This decision was a reaction to a contentious meeting on February 28, 2025, at the White House between U.S. President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The company expressed outrage over what it described as a "backstabbing TV show" by U.S. leadership, praising Zelensky for his restraint. In a now-deleted social media post, Haltbakk Bunkers stated, "As a result, we have decided to immediately STOP as fuel provider to American forces in Norway and their ships calling Norwegian ports. 'No Fuel to Americans!'" The company also urged other Norwegian and European firms to follow suit.

The decision was spearheaded by Gunnar Gran, the CEO and owner of Haltbakk Bunkers, who emphasized the company’s “moral compass.” Gran noted that the firm had previously halted fuel sales to Russian entities after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, and now extended this stance to the U.S. due to its perceived treatment of Ukraine. He estimated that in 2024, Haltbakk supplied around 3 million liters of fuel to U.S. naval vessels, though he described the boycott as largely symbolic since the company does not have a direct contract with the U.S. military. Instead, U.S. ships typically procure fuel through intermediaries who buy from suppliers like Haltbakk.

In response, Norway’s Defence Minister Tore Sandvik issued a statement on March 2, 2025, clarifying that Haltbakk Bunkers’ actions did not reflect Norwegian government policy. Sandvik assured that “American forces will continue to receive the supply and support they require from Norway,” emphasizing the strong defense cooperation between the U.S. and Norway, a NATO ally. The Norwegian government has distanced itself from the company’s decision, ensuring that U.S. Navy operations in the region would not face disruptions from official channels.

Reports vary on the operational impact. Some sources claimed that the USS Virginia, a nuclear-powered submarine, was turned away from refueling in Norway, but this remains unverified by primary evidence as of the latest updates. The broader logistical effect on U.S. naval operations in Norwegian waters is unclear, given that Haltbakk Bunkers is one of several suppliers and not the sole provider. The company’s fleet, described as Norway’s largest bunker fleet with 10 vessels and 2 fuel tankers, serves a significant role in the region, but alternative suppliers are available.

Public and media reactions have been mixed. Some view Haltbakk’s move as a bold stand in support of Ukraine, while others see it as posturing that could strain NATO relations. Posts on X reflect ongoing sentiment, with some users applauding the decision and others questioning its practicality or impact. However, no further actions by other European companies joining the boycott have been reported as of now.

In summary, Haltbakk Bunkers’ refusal to refuel U.S. Navy vessels remains in effect as a private company decision, but the Norwegian government has guaranteed continued support for U.S. forces, minimizing strategic fallout. The situation has not escalated beyond this symbolic gesture, and no additional updates suggest a reversal or expansion of the boycott as of March 15, 2025. 17GEN4.com