Denys Shmyhal discussed defence cooperation with Portugal’s Minister of National Defence, Nuno Melo

The Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, held a conversation with the Minister of National Defence of Portugal, Nuno Melo. During the discussion, the parties coordinated key areas of defence cooperation and the Ukrainian military's priority needs.

First and foremost, Denys Shmyhal expressed gratitude to his counterpart for Portugal’s active engagement in the meetings of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in the Ramstein format and for its contribution of $12 million to the International Fund for Ukraine (IFU).

During the phone conversation, the parties discussed Portugal’s participation in the PURL initiative, aimed at procuring U.S. weapons for Ukraine. The Minister of Defence of Ukraine thanked Portugal for its announced $50 million contribution and for the continued expansion of its participation. 

The conversation also addressed the potential for implementing joint projects within the SAFE programme. 

“This will open up additional opportunities for cooperation between our defence industries,” emphasised the Minister of Defence of Ukraine.

Furthermore, the ministers discussed measures to enhance Ukraine’s air defence and expressed interest in broadening cooperation in unmanned systems, tactical communications, cyber defence, and maritime technologies.