Denys Shmyhal: Together with diplomats, we must intensify efforts to support our warriors and bring victory closer

Minister of Defence Denys Shmyhal addressed Ukrainian diplomats during the meeting of Heads of Foreign Diplomatic Missions.

In particular, the Minister outlined the strategic objectives and defense priorities defined by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy:

• Increasing the procurement of Ukrainian-made weapons, with the goal of sourcing 50% of supplies domestically;
• Attracting more foreign enterprises ready to partner with Ukraine and operate within the country;
• Increased deliveries of weapons and non-lethal assistance, including from neutral countries. 

“Particular focus is being placed on new deliveries of the most effective air defense systems, especially those capable of intercepting ballistic threats,” emphasized Denys Shmyhal.

The Minister of Defence of Ukraine added that additional funding is also required to advance Ukraine’s defense industry — specifically for the production of FPV drones, long-range UAVs, and interceptor systems.

“For our part, we are ready to share our unique combat experience, technologies, and innovations with our partners. We invite our allies to collaborate by creating joint ventures, transferring licenses, and launching production facilities in partner countries. During the war, these products will be directed to meet the needs of the Ukrainian Defence Forces, and in the long term, they will also strengthen our partners,” the Minister of Defence said.

According to Denys Shmyhal, Ukraine will require at least $120 billion for defense next year. Efforts have already begun with other countries, including EU and NATO members, to secure half of this amount with the support of allies.

During a panel discussion, Denys Shmyhal, alongside Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko and Chief of the General Staff Major General Andrii Hnatov, addressed questions posed by ambassadors.

“I express my gratitude to the diplomatic corps for their daily dedication to Ukraine’s cause. Together, we must intensify our efforts to support our warriors and bring victory closer,” concluded the Minister of Defence.