Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov met in Kyiv with General Keith Kellogg, the U.S. president’s special envoy for Ukraine.
Umerov shared details of the meeting on Facebook, according to Ukrinform.
“I met with General Keith Kellogg, Special Representative of the U.S. President for Ukraine. We had a substantive discussion focused on our shared goal – achieving a sustainable and just peace. I thanked the United States for its support of Ukraine. This assistance saves lives and brings the end of the war closer,” Umerov wrote.
According to the minister, First Deputy Minister of Defense Serhii Boiev emphasized that Ukraine is ready for a long-term ceasefire. At the same time, Ukraine’s security and defense rely on a capable army and a strong defense industry, so the country is focused on scaling up its capabilities.
Both sides paid special attention to the development of joint projects aimed at localizing weapons production in Ukraine and Europe.
“This includes air defense systems and other critical areas. Some of these projects are already underway, while others are being prepared for launch. They strengthen not only Ukraine but also our allies,” Umerov said.
He added that Ukraine possesses unique combat experience, especially in the use of drones (UAVs), and is ready to share it. Some of the major joint initiatives could be implemented with the involvement of European partners or funded through frozen Russian assets.
The meeting also addressed sanctions against Russia.
“The Russian energy sector is a key source of funding for the war. It must be consistently and systematically restricted,” Umerov said.
The U.S. delegation also received a briefing attended by Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi, Chief of the General Staff Andrii Hnatov, Chief of Defense Intelligence Kyrylo Budanov, and other intelligence representatives.
“They provided information on the operational situation, assessments of enemy plans, and Russia’s preparation for a broader war – not only against Ukraine but also against NATO. We demonstrated how Ukraine is responding to Russian aggression. General Syrskyi also outlined the Ukrainian army’s priority needs in weaponry,” Umerov added.
The defense minister thanked General Kellogg and the United States for their steadfast support, strategic vision, and leadership.
Photo credit: Rustem Umerov / Facebook
Source: Umerov, Kellogg discuss paths to peace, weapons production, sanctions against Russia
