Ukraine’s defense industry is expanding its production and technological capabilities but requires support from partners to fully utilize its potential—specifically through direct investments and by leveraging the proceeds from frozen Russian assets.

In Brussels, Deputy Minister of Defense for European Integration, Sergiy Boyev, appealed to EU defense policy directors. He thanked the countries that have already invested in Ukraine’s defense sector and called on others to join.

“It is important that €400 million from the first tranche of frozen Russian assets has already been allocated to support the Danish model. We also anticipate that the second tranche of €1.9 billion will be provided soon. This will allow us to use these funds to address critical needs for production and procurement: ammunition, air defense systems, and missiles,” noted Sergiy Boyev.

Deputy Minister informed his European colleagues on the key points of President Zelenskyy’s Victory Plan. He also provided updates on the frontline situation, including the involvement of North Korean forces in escalating the conflict in Ukraine, and emphasized the urgent defense needs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

“In October alone, Russia launched over 2,000 Shahed drones against Ukraine. This is why Ukraine still needs more air defense systems and sufficient ammunition for them,” Sergiy Boyev emphasized.

Sergiy Boyev thanked EU representatives for their efforts to supply artillery ammunition and for adopting the Ammunition Production Support Act. This act aims to increase ammunition production capacity across Europe, help member states replenish their stockpiles, and supply ammunition for Ukraine.

The Deputy Minister also expressed gratitude for the extension of the EU training mission for Ukrainian troops for another two years. He called for exploring the possibility of expanding the mission within Ukraine, which would enhance the speed and efficiency of training and reduce logistical burdens.

During the EU defense policy directors’ meeting, discussions included the blocked aid from the European Peace Facility totaling €6.6 billion, intended to reimburse EU countries for the cost of military support to Ukraine. Planning for financial and material assistance in 2025 was also highlighted as a separate topic.