Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal on September 3 held a meeting in Kyiv with New Zealand’s Defense Minister Judith Collins and the Chief of the New Zealand Defence Force, Air Marshal Tony Davies.
The head of Ukraine’s defense ministry thanked the people and leadership of New Zealand for their comprehensive support in the fight against Russian aggression.
During the talks, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Lieutenant General Andrii Hnatov, informed the New Zealand delegation about the current situation on the battlefield and the key needs of the Ukrainian army.
The parties discussed priorities for bilateral defense cooperation. In particular, the Minister of Defense of Ukraine proposed exploring opportunities for collaboration in maritime drone production.
Among other topics of the meeting were: prospects for a bilateral security agreement, participation in the Coalition of the Willing, and humanitarian projects.
“I proposed that New Zealand take part in financing rehabilitation programs for Ukrainian military personnel and civilians released from captivity. We also highly appreciate the participation of New Zealand instructors in the Interflex training program for Ukrainian soldiers,” said Denys Shmyhal.
During the negotiations, the head of Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense also thanked New Zealand for its assistance in countering Russia’s shadow fleet.
He further called on partners to continue and strengthen sanctions pressure on the aggressor, particularly concerning the confiscation of frozen Russian assets.
