Ammunition, air defense and investments in defense industry: Umierov discusses Ukraine’s defense needs with partner countries
Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umierov took part in an international meeting via video link that brought together representatives of the E5 countries (Poland, Germany, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom), the Nordic-Baltic Eight, the Netherlands, the EU, and NATO. During the meeting, the Minister outlined Ukraine's key defense needs.
This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Defense, Censor.NET informs.
First of all, Umierov thanked the allies for their unwavering support.
"Three years ago, we deterred the first attacks of Russian troops with the help of anti-tank systems provided by the allies. Today, we continue the fight thanks to the tanks, aircraft and artillery we receive from our partners," the Defense Minister said.
He emphasized the importance of increasing military cooperation, as the aggressor country Russia is increasing its capabilities, which poses a threat not only to Ukraine but also to the whole of Europe.
The future of European security, Umierov emphasized, should be in the hands of Europe.
At the meeting, the Minister outlined Ukraine's key defense needs, namely:
- Ammunition: additional funds for the purchase of shells;
- Strengthening of air defense: provision of air defense systems;
- Military training: expansion of training programs, including in Ukraine;
- Investment projects in the defense industry: the production capacity of the Ukrainian defense industry is estimated at $35 billion, but needs to be financed.
The defense minister also emphasized the immutability of Ukraine's course to join the EU and NATO.
"Ukraine needs concrete and reliable security guarantees, and the support of its allies plays a key role on this path," the minister added.
