The defense ministers of Estonia and Lithuania expressed positive feedback on the proposal by Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umierov regarding the launch of activities of Ukrainian defense enterprises in European countries. This initiative was announced during a meeting in the “Ramstein” format in Brussels.
This is reported by Kyiv24
European Support for Ukrainian Arms Production
According to the proposal, weapons manufactured in Europe under Ukrainian licenses will be directed exclusively to meet the needs of Ukraine during the war. It is also emphasized that the development of such cooperation will enhance the defense capabilities not only of Ukraine but also of partner countries.
“I believe that investing in the Ukrainian defense industry – both in joint production in Ukraine and in the countries of the ‘Ramstein’ coalition – is a great idea. Production should take into account both Ukraine’s needs and our own. In my opinion, this is one of the areas that will bring significant added value in the coming years,” said Lithuania’s Minister of National Defense, Arvydas Anušauskas, in a comment to Radio Liberty in Brussels on June 4.
The head of Lithuania’s defense ministry also emphasized that her country is already investing in the development of the Ukrainian defense industry. According to her, Lithuania requires significant volumes of certain types of weapons, so cooperation projects with Ukraine have significant potential for both sides.
Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur added that companies in his country are already collaborating with Ukrainian firms, but he stressed the possibility of further expanding the partnership. He noted that the initiative is worth attention and requires further development.
Launch of a New Investment Strategy
Rustem Umierov announced the start of a new strategic initiative aimed at attracting investments in the defense industry following the meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in the “Ramstein” format. According to him, some key partners are already ready to host Ukrainian defense factories on their territory. This involves the production of modern defense technologies, including drones, missiles, ammunition, and other weapons.