Ukraine and Estonia align priorities for a mutually beneficial defence partnership
The Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Mykhailo Fedorov, met in Kyiv with the Minister of Defence of Estonia, Hanno Pevkur. The parties agreed on key priorities for mutually beneficial cooperation, including joint weapons production and the development of defence capabilities.
Systematic support from Estonia
During the meeting, Mykhailo Fedorov expressed gratitude to Estonia for its sustained support, particularly for its decision to allocate at least 0.25% of GDP to support Ukraine. In 2026, this is estimated at around €110 million.
Estonia’s assistance will primarily focus on procuring drones and counter-UAS capabilities, as well as supporting the defence industries of Estonia and Ukraine.
Particular note was made of the contribution to the PURL (Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List) mechanism, as well as an additional $13 million in funding.
Estonia’s leadership in the IT Coalition
Mykhailo Fedorov also underscored the effectiveness of Estonia’s co-leadership of the IT Coalition, which it leads jointly with Luxembourg. Estonia’s contribution to the Coalition this year stands at €5.7 million, while in total, approximately €1.4 billion has been mobilised under the mechanism to support the development of communications systems and other technological solutions that ensure Ukraine’s advantage on the battlefield.
The Minister of Defence of Ukraine noted that Estonia’s support consistently corresponds to the evolving needs of the frontline. The parties agreed on the next steps to continue directing assistance towards priority areas.
Joint projects and production
The key focus is the development of joint defence projects.
The Ministers of Defence signed a Letter of Intent to enhance cooperation in weapons production. Output under this cooperation will primarily be directed towards strengthening the Defence Forces of Ukraine. The document also opens up opportunities for technology exchange and the development of production capacities.