Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov participated in a video conference of the defense ministers of the European Union, which took place on May 20. He announced this on his social media. The event gathered high representatives of the EU, including the High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell. The main topic of discussion was the new European Union defense initiative – SAFE, with a budget of 150 billion euros.
This is reported by Kyiv24
According to Umerov, this initiative provides Ukraine with the opportunity for full integration into the European defense industrial space. He emphasized:
“Our weapons are Europe’s weapons. Over the past three years, Ukraine has raised its defense production volume from 1 billion dollars in 2022 to 35 billion dollars (31 billion euros) in 2025. This is the result of joint efforts and immense domestic potential.”
The minister stressed that supporting the Ukrainian defense industry contributes to the overall security of Europe.
Calls for prioritizing the procurement of Ukrainian defense products
Umerov urged European partners to prioritize the procurement of defense technologies and ammunition produced in Ukraine. In particular, the minister noted:
- Drones – “we are ready for large-scale joint production and deliveries – both for the front and for the future needs of European armies.”
- 155-millimeter ammunition – Ukraine, together with its partners, is developing production of over a million shells annually.
Umerov added that he is open to cooperation in other critical areas, including artillery systems, air defense systems, and electronic warfare means.
It is worth noting that in April, the European Commission announced an investment of 910 million euros for the development of the European Defense Fund, and for the first time, the Ukrainian defense industry will be involved in the implementation of these projects. It is also reported that European countries are considering increasing support for Ukraine’s defense industry instead of direct arms supplies.