Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov began his working visit to Brussels with a speech at the European Parliament's Subcommittee on Security and Defence (SEDE) meeting.

The Defence Minister thanked the MEPs for their unwavering military, diplomatic, and financial support to Ukraine.

“A special thanks to the Chair of the Subcommittee, Mari-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, a great friend of our country,” Rustem Umerov said.

The Minister of Defence presented European partners President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Victory Plan, which outlines concrete steps toward a just peace. One of the most important steps is the invitation to NATO for Ukraine.

He also called attention to russia’s systematic attacks on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine and stressed the necessity of establishing a multi-layered air defense system to protect our cities from missile and drone strikes.

“Creating such a system is a shared responsibility that can save thousands of lives,” he emphasized.

The Minister also pointed out the significance of removing restrictions on targeting military facilities within russian territory.

“The European Parliament can take the lead in this matter, helping Ukraine restore justice and bring the war back to where it originated,” Umerov said.

Besides that, the Minister briefed MEPs on the successes of Ukraine's defense industry. In 2024, the Ukrainian government invested $4 billion in the sector.

Rustem Umerov also indicated that Ukrainian long-range drones have already destroyed more than 200 military facilities of the aggressor.

“The investment potential of the Ukrainian defense industry for 2025 is estimated at $20 billion. “We have successful examples of cooperation — Denmark financed the production of self-propelled guns, and Lithuania financed the production of long-range weapons,” the Minister noted, emphasizing the significance of harnessing Ukraine's industrial potential and investing in the nation's economic recovery.

In conclusion, Umerov suggested that European partners train our strategic reserves and arm brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine following the example of Germany and France.