Rustem Umerov: Supporting Ukraine’s defense production is a strategic contribution to Europe’s security

Minister of Defence of Ukraine Rustem Umerov spoke to the participants of the European Defence Agency's annual conference.

During the panel focused on supporting Ukraine, Rustem Umerov emphasized the importance of enhancing the EU's role in fostering a just peace across the continent.

The head of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence also highlighted the EU's primary security priority for 2025: boosting investment in the production of military equipment, including air and missile defense systems, armored vehicles, and advanced artillery systems.
Meanwhile, Ukraine has already made substantial progress in strengthening its defense industry, and there is still great potential for further development.

“In 2025, our production capacity has the potential to reach 34 billion EUR. However, achieving this demands assistance, particularly: financing amounting to EUR 18 billion (with Ukraine capable of securing 16 billion independently), transfer of military technologies, and partnerships with European companies,” noted the Minister of Defence of Ukraine.

Rustem Umerov thanked the EU for the decision to allocate €1 billion from the income generated by frozen russian assets to support Ukrainian production. These funds will be directed toward priority needs: ammunition, artillery, and drones.

“Supporting Ukraine’s defense production is a strategic contribution to Europe’s security. Joint efforts, decisive actions, and coordinated support will help make 2025 a year of just peace for Ukraine and all of Europe,” summarized the Minister of Defence of Ukraine.