Denys Shmyhal: We anticipate the EU’s involvement in financing joint initiatives aimed at advancing defence innovations

Ukraine’s Minister of Defence, Rustem Umerov, conducted talks with the EU Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius.

The parties discussed the most pressing needs of the Defence Forces of Ukraine and potential avenues to enhance military support from EU countries and institutions.

“Considerable attention has been given to innovative developments in the defence industry. In particular, I expressed my gratitude for the launch of the BraveTech EU initiative, with a budget of EUR 100 million to support the development of defence innovations. We look forward to the EU’s active engagement in financing such startups,” emphasised Denys Shmyhal.

The Defence Minister further added that Ukraine’s participation in the SAFE initiative will be one of the key tools for accelerating the strengthening of defence capabilities in Ukraine and the EU.

Denys Shmyhal expressed gratitude to Andrius Kubilius for his steadfast personal commitment and leadership in supporting the fight for Ukraine’s future and the security of Europe as a whole.