Ukraine’s Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal addressed Ukrainian diplomats during the meeting of heads of foreign diplomatic missions.
In particular, the Minister of Defense outlined the strategic goals and defense priorities defined by President Volodymyr Zelensky:
- More Ukrainian-made weapons — 50% of purchases should be domestic;
- More foreign companies willing to cooperate with and operate in Ukraine;
- More weapons and non-lethal aid, including from neutral countries.
"A particular focus is on new deliveries of the most effective means to protect our skies, especially those capable of intercepting ballistic targets," emphasized Denys Shmyhal.
The Minister of Defense also noted that additional funding is needed to develop Ukraine’s defense industry — particularly for the production of FPV drones, long-range drones, and interceptors.
"On our part, we are ready to share unique combat experience, technologies, and innovations with our partners. We propose to allies the creation of joint ventures, licensing agreements, and launching production facilities in partner countries. During wartime, such products will meet the needs of Ukraine’s Defense Forces, and in the future, they will strengthen our allies as well," the minister added.
According to Denys Shmyhal, Ukraine will require at least $120 billion for defense next year. Work is already underway with other countries, including EU and NATO members, to secure half of this amount with the support of allies.
Additionally, Denys Shmyhal, along with Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko and Chief of the General Staff Major General Andrii Hnatov, took part in a panel where they answered questions from ambassadors.
"I am grateful to the diplomatic corps for their daily work for the benefit of Ukraine. We must continue to strengthen our joint efforts to support our troops and bring victory closer," concluded Ukraine’s Minister of Defense.
