The President of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, Marcos Perestrello, visited Ukraine and met with representatives of the government and the Verkhovna Rada. This took place at the end of April during his visit to the country, where security issues and defense cooperation were discussed. According to Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, during the meeting he expressed gratitude for the support of Ukraine in countering Russian aggression and for backing its intentions to join NATO.
This is reported by Kyiv24
“In our conversation, we raised the topic of deepening defense cooperation and developing Ukraine’s defense industry. I noted the effectiveness of the ‘Danish model’ of support for Ukraine’s defense industry and called for further development of this instrument. We also discussed how the NATO PA can assist Ukraine not only now but also in the long term,” the Prime Minister stated.
The prospect of closer cooperation for establishing lasting peace was also discussed. According to the Prime Minister, they agreed that Europe, the United States, and Ukraine must work together to achieve a just and lasting peace, and any agreements must have reliable security guarantees. Furthermore, the Ministry of Defense reported on a meeting between Minister Rustem Umerov and the NATO PA delegation, during which Perestrello reaffirmed the importance of continuing military assistance to Ukraine.
Discussion of Security Situation and Support for Ukrainian Defense Industry
Participants in the meeting discussed current security challenges and Russia’s plans, receiving information from intelligence and Ministry of Defense representatives. In particular, First Deputy Minister of Defense Serhiy Boyev assessed Russia’s plans and highlighted key areas that require additional strengthening in Ukraine’s defense. Additionally, participants emphasized the need to invest in the development of Ukraine’s defense industry to enhance its potential.
Marcos Perestrello also addressed the Verkhovna Rada, where he condemned Russian aggression and called on world powers to support Ukraine. He emphasized that the war has global significance and determines the future of international security. “From the very beginning, we made it clear that this war concerns not only Ukraine. It will define the world in which we and our children live. Ukraine is at the forefront of the geopolitical confrontation between democracies and autocracies. By supporting Ukraine, we are also protecting our own security and our shared values,” he stated.
The NATO PA President called for addressing Ukraine’s urgent needs and supporting efforts for a peaceful resolution of the conflict. He stressed the necessity of mobilizing Europe to take greater responsibility for ensuring its own security, particularly by increasing support in the defense industry sector.
Sources report that European countries are considering increasing support for the Ukrainian defense industry, particularly in the form of investments, while moving away from direct arms supplies. This will strengthen Ukraine’s defense potential and reduce dependence on military assistance from abroad.