Denys Shmyhal discusses military support for Ukraine with the Ministers of Defence of France and Sweden

Ukraine’s Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal and French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu discussed the implementation of agreements reached between the Presidents of the two countries.

“We are bolstering military support from our partners. Our key interests include the manufacture of drones, ammunition, and air defense systems. We have agreed to establish drone manufacturing in Ukraine,” stated Denys Shmyhal.

The Minister of Defence of Ukraine thanked France for facilitating the preparation of additional weapons transfers. Denys Shmyhal noted that the mechanism supporting French exports to Ukraine has proven effective. 

The parties also discussed grant support for the Ukrainian defense industry. In particular, Ukraine relies on a new grant of up to EUR 200 million.

Denys Shmyhal expressed gratitude to France for its substantial contribution to enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities, notably within the framework of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group and the Coalition of the Willing.

Additionally, the Minister of Defence of Ukraine held a telephone conversation with the Swedish Defence Minister, Pål Jonsson. 

The parties discussed the situation at the frontline. Denys Shmyhal outlined Ukraine’s critical and immediate requirements and invited Pål Jonsson to pay an official visit to Ukraine soon.

“Sweden is currently preparing a significant new assistance package. Equally critical is the sustained enhancement of Ukraine’s defense industry capacity; we have identified key prospective areas for the development of joint production initiatives. I expressed gratitude to Sweden for its considerable support, including the training and equipping of the Armed Forces of Ukraine brigades, and confirmed our commitment to continue these efforts,” said Denys Shmyhal.