Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov outlined Ukraine’s key defense needs during a meeting with international partners.
He shared details of the meeting on Facebook, Ukrinform reports.
Umerov said he participated via video link in a meeting that brought together representatives of the E5 group (Poland, Germany, France, Italy, the United Kingdom), the Nordic-Baltic Eight, the Netherlands, the EU, and NATO.
Umerov thanked Ukraine’s partners for their unwavering support.
“Three years ago, we repelled the first attacks of Russian forces with the anti-tank systems provided by our allies. Today, we continue the fight thanks to tanks, aircraft, and artillery received from our partners,” he said.
Strengthening military cooperation remains critical, Umerov stressed, as Russia continues expanding its capabilities, posing a threat not only to Ukraine but to all of Europe. He also added that the future of European security must be in Europe’s hands.
Ukraine’s most pressing needs, according to the minister, include additional funding for ammunition procurement, bolstering air defense capabilities, and expanding military training programs, including those conducted within Ukraine.
Investment in Ukraine’s defense industry was also highlighted as a key priority. Umerov noted that the country’s defense production capacity is estimated at $35 billion but requires significant financial support.
The minister reaffirmed Ukraine’s unwavering commitment to joining the EU and NATO.
“Ukraine needs concrete and reliable security guarantees, and support of our allies plays a key role in this process,” Umerov said.
Photo credit: Rustem Umerov / Facebook
Source: Ammunition, air defense, investments: Umerov meets with allies
