Rustem Umerov: The ‘Ramstein’ format contributes to building a new security framework for Ukraine and Europe

The Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) continues to save lives, deter aggression, and build a new security framework across the European continent. This statement was made by Ukraine’s Minister of Defence, Rustem Umerov, on the occasion of the third anniversary of the ‘Ramstein’ format.

Exactly three years ago, on April 26, 2022, Ukraine’s allies convened for the first time at Ramstein Air Base to participate in a Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting. At that time, 40 nations, including all NATO and EU members, united to support Ukraine's fight for freedom and independence.

“Today, the ‘Ramstein’ format (UDCG) continues its mission. It has expanded and adapted to new challenges. Now led by the United Kingdom and Germany, with the United States remaining a key participant in the Contact Group, this platform owes its creation to an American initiative in April 2022, a contribution Ukraine remembers with deep gratitude,” stated Rustem Umerov.

At the most recent Contact Group meeting, partners announced a new aid package amounting to approximately $24 billion, further confirming the ‘Ramstein’ format’s role in bolstering Ukraine’s defense.

The Contact Group now unites more than 50 countries, which together have pledged nearly $170 billion in security aid to Ukraine. This support has already played a decisive role on the battlefield. 

“Notably, within the framework of the Contact Group, Ukraine received Patriot, SAMP-T, and IRIS-T air defense systems, HIMARS, and Leopard tanks. The presence of F-16 and Mirage aircraft in Ukrainian skies is further testament to this support,” emphasized Rustem Umerov.

Additionally, within the ‘Ramstein’ format, nine Capability Coalitions have been established:  the Air Force Coalition, the Maritime Capability Coalition, the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Coalition, the Artillery Coalition, the Armored Vehicles and Maneuverability Coalition, the Drone Coalition, the IT Coalition, the Demining Capability Coalition, and the Electronic Warfare (EW) Coalition.

These Coalitions are more than just mechanisms of assistance—they symbolize the unity of the free world and contribute to Ukraine’s future. They are empowering Ukraine to forge the Defence Forces of the future, incorporating Western arms, technologies, and standards.

“I am grateful to the United States for its leadership in initiating the ‘Ramstein’ format and establishing the Contact Group. I thank the United Kingdom and Germany for their leading roles in its development. And special gratitude to all the nations participating in the ‘Ramstein’ format—you are helping save lives, deter aggression, and build a new, effective security system for Ukraine and all of Europe,” concluded Ukraine’s Minister of Defence.