The Minister of Defense of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, held a phone conversation with the Italian Minister of Defense, Guido Crosetto, during which the parties discussed in detail the prospects for the development of joint defense production and strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Enhancing Defense Cooperation
During the dialogue, Denys Shmyhal thanked Italy for its participation in the creation of the European Union’s SAFE defense fund, which has a budget of 150 billion euros. He expressed hope for further deepening cooperation between Ukrainian and Italian companies in the field of defense technologies and the implementation of important joint projects.
“I thanked Italy for its participation in the European Union’s SAFE defense fund of 150 billion euros. In this context, we expect to strengthen cooperation and develop important defense projects between our countries and companies.”
The Minister also noted the significance of the weapons already provided by Italy within the military aid packages and expressed gratitude for the preparation of new supplies. According to Shmyhal, Italian assistance significantly impacts enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities in countering Russian aggression.
Discussion of Additional Air Defense Systems
During the conversation, the Ukrainian minister informed his Italian counterpart about the nighttime missile strike on Kyiv, which resulted in civilian casualties, including a child. He specifically mentioned the strikes on residential areas in Kramatorsk. Against this backdrop, the parties considered the possibility of additional supplies of air defense systems to Ukraine.
According to Shmyhal, the strategic partnership between Ukraine and Italy in the defense sector continues to strengthen. At this time, Guido Crosetto has not publicly commented on the results of the conversation.
It is worth noting that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized in March that Ukraine should receive security guarantees from NATO even without joining the alliance.