During the regular meeting of the Contact Group on Support for Ukraine, the newly appointed Minister of Defense of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal commented on the state’s main needs in the field of defense and expectations from international partners.
This was reported by a correspondent for Ukrinform.
“My first request concerns the urgent purchase of American weapons for Ukraine—air defense, especially Patriot and PAC 3 missiles along with ammunition, are extremely important for us,” Shmyhal said.
The minister recalled Russia’s latest nighttime combined attack, which involved 24 missiles and 426 drones.
“Russian terror continues, so we need to strengthen our air defense. I ask the US to make these weapons available for purchase, and our European partners to provide all the necessary funding for their purchase,” the minister said.
Another expectation voiced by Shmyhal is financial support.
“Ukraine needs USD 6 billion to cover this year’s deficit [in defense procurement]. This will allow us to build more FPV drones to hold the front line, more interceptor drones to counter Shahid attacks, and additional long-range weapons to bring the war back to Russian territory,” the defense minister said.
“The third is preparation for 2026. I urge our partners to allocate funds for Ukraine in their budget proposals for 2026, right now,” Shmyhal said.
He separately emphasized the need for Ukraine’s active participation in European lending programs under SAFE (Security Action for Europe).
“SAFE loans are another critically important source of funding for next year,” said the minister, adding that “unity remains our greatest strength.”
He expressed his readiness to work with partners to “achieve these goals and ensure lasting peace.”
“I fully understand the level of responsibility that rests on the country’s defense minister and the war. That is why I want to assure you, dear friends, that the transition period at the Ministry of Defense will be smooth. Activities will continue uninterrupted. Everything we have achieved together will remain a priority,” Shmyhal said.
The newly appointed head of the Ministry of Defense emphasized that “the Contact Group on Defense Issues of Ukraine remains a key platform for coordinating international military assistance to Ukraine.”
As reported by Ukrinform, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced details of Germany’s upcoming defense aid package to Ukraine, including assistance in the purchase of five Patriot systems, ammunition for Gepard systems, and funding for long-range drones.
Source: DM Shmyhal announces Ukraine main defense needs at Ramstein summit
