During a meeting with EU defense ministers in Brussels, Ukrainian Defense Minister Denis Shmyhal discussed joint efforts to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities and that of Europe. He shared this information via Telegram, highlighting that the key focus was on collaborative actions to bolster regional resilience.
“In Brussels, I participated in the EU Council meeting, where we addressed critical issues concerning our defense and the integration of Ukrainian manufacturers into the European defense industry,” he emphasized.
Shmyhal also pointed out the initiation of the Ukraine Support Instrument worth 300 million euros, which opens new avenues for cooperation. He expressed hope for the implementation of the SAFE instrument.
In his speech, the minister highlighted the capabilities of Ukraine's defense industry and invited partners to engage in joint projects under the Build with Ukraine initiative.
Additionally, a significant source of funding for Ukraine's defense is expected to come from frozen Russian assets.
Shmyhal informed allies of the immediate needs of the Ukrainian military, particularly in the field of air defense.
“It is crucial to ensure new contributions to the PURL initiative, which will enable Ukraine to acquire necessary American weapons,” he added.
In closing, the minister thanked EU countries for their decisions that strengthen Ukrainian defense and emphasized that together we can achieve a just and lasting peace on our continent.
On November 30, the defense ministers of Ukraine and Norway signed an agreement on the joint production of drones.