Minister of Defense of Ukraine Rustem Umerov held talks with a delegation from the European Union’s Political and Security Committee, led by Ms. Delphine Pronk, with the participation of EU Ambassador to Ukraine Katarína Mathernová.

Rustem Umerov expressed gratitude to EU representatives for their comprehensive support of Ukraine, emphasizing that aid to Ukraine contributes to the security of the entire European continent.

"Thanks to our European partners, we are successfully implementing a number of important security initiatives. Since October 2022, more than 62,000 Ukrainian service members have received training in EU countries as part of the EU Military Assistance Mission, and by the end of the year, this number will rise to 75,000," stated the Minister of Defense of Ukraine.

He thanked the EU ambassadors for their decision to extend the Mission’s mandate by two years. During the meeting, the parties discussed ways to enhance the effectiveness of EUMAM operations. Rustem Umerov highlighted the importance of conducting mission training directly in Ukraine, as this would significantly accelerate the preparation of Ukrainian defenders.

Additionally, the Minister of Defense called on European countries to invest in production within Ukraine. The Ministry of Defense is ready to sign long-term contracts and facilitate joint production of drones, long-range weapons, and ammunition.

Ukraine anticipates a new €1.9 billion aid tranche from the EU, funded by frozen Russian assets, as well as €6 billion from the European Peace Facility to strengthen Ukrainian forces on the front lines.

"The future of Ukraine lies within the European Union and NATO. We will continue to strengthen cooperation to jointly resist the coalition of dictatorships led by russia," emphasized Rustem Umerov.