Ukraine discusses funding for drones and strengthening air defence with Sweden and Norway

Acting Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Evgeniy Khmara, held talks with Swedish Minister for Defence, Pål Jonson, and Norwegian Minister of Defence, Tore O. Sandvik.

Key topics included the urgent needs of combat units, funding for Ukrainian drones, enhancing air defence, and developing long-term defence projects with partners.

Requests from combat units and the needs of the Defence Forces

Evgeniy Khmara shared his conclusions from his working visit to combat units with his counterparts.

Another urgent priority is countering ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as countering jet-powered Shahed drones. To address these threats, Ukraine needs interceptor missiles and capabilities for asymmetric action now.

European anti-ballistic missile defence project FREYJA

Alongside immediate needs, the parties discussed long-term projects.

In particular, the talks covered the development of the European anti-ballistic missile defence project FREYJA. Ukraine is counting on continued support from Sweden and Norway in this area.

Cooperation with Sweden

During talks with his Swedish counterpart, Evgeniy Khmara discussed measures to strengthen Ukraine by the end of the summer and the further development of its air capabilities.

The Acting Minister of Defence of Ukraine thanked Sweden for its co-leadership of the Electronic Warfare (EW) Coalition, its support for Gripen, and other assistance to Ukraine.

Cooperation with Norway

During talks with Norwegian Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik, the parties focused on joint projects in the defence industry and on strengthening air defence through various support mechanisms. Evgeniy Khmara emphasised that Norway is one of Ukraine’s leading partners and thanked the country for its significant contributions to Ukraine’s defence capabilities.

Ukraine remains committed to developing long-term, mutually beneficial defence partnerships with Sweden and Norway.