Air defense and additional defense funding: Ukraine’s key priorities ahead of the Ramstein-format meeting

Minister of Defence of Ukraine Evgeniy Khmara held a phone call with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

The main focus of the call was preparations for an effective meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (Ramstein format), which will take place in the coming days.

Ukraine’s priority needs

During the call, the parties discussed Ukraine’s priority needs: first and foremost, the provision of air defense systems and additional funding for the Defence Forces of Ukraine.

Evgeniy Khmara emphasized that partners’ support in these areas is a key priority for Ukraine ahead of the Ramstein-format meeting.

Consolidated support from partners

The Minister of Defence emphasized the importance of consolidated support from partners for air defense and defense funding. Ukraine counts on partners’ continued unity and swift decisions needed to protect lives and strengthen the front.

Evgeniy Khmara thanked NATO and personally thanked Secretary General Mark Rutte for their effective assistance to Ukraine.

The Minister also highlighted the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) program, which helps ensure the delivery of critical weapons to the Defence Forces of Ukraine.