In Kyiv, the EU delegation headed by Benedikta von Seherr-Thoss, Managing Director for Peace, Security and Defence at the European External Action Service (EEAS), discussed security cooperation and defence investments with the leadership of the Ministry of Defence.

During the talks, Deputy Minister of Defence Stanislav Haider focused on implementing the Security Agreement between Ukraine and the EU. “We are keen on arranging open consultations on joint projects in the defence sector. This includes training, as well as the supply of weapons and military equipment,” he said.

Stanislav Haider noted that investing in Ukraine's defence sector, with contributions from Denmark, is crucial in strengthening Ukraine's defence capabilities and serves as an example for other countries.

In his part, Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine for European integration Oleksandr Balanutsa brought up the topic of Ukraine's recent initiative to set up a ‘humanitarian shield’ over Ukraine. “Russian drones and missiles regularly and deliberately cross the borders of European NATO member states. Hence, a decision needs to be made to bring them down. Domestic consultations regarding this matter are currently underway in Romania and Poland,” the Deputy Defence Minister said.

The Ukrainian side thanked the EU for training tens of thousands of Ukrainian service members and expressed hope that by the end of 2024, their number (including soldiers, sergeants and officers) would reach 75,000 persons. It was stressed how important it is to have the opportunity to host such training courses in Ukraine, enabling the enhancement of training centres and the supply of required equipment to them.

“The European Union is prepared to collaborate closely with Ukraine on implementing the measures outlined in the Security Agreement. To offer the most effective support, we must comprehend the genuine needs and key priorities,” said Benedikta von Seherr-Thoss.

The EU official also briefed the details of the Defence Innovation Office's launch in Ukraine and the primary objectives of this initiative. This establishment will foster connections between EU and Ukrainian businesses in military research.