Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov held talks in Kyiv with the newly appointed Head of NATO Representation in Ukraine, Patrick Turner. Umerov congratulated Turner on his appointment and emphasized Ukraine’s openness to collaboration.

"On our path to NATO membership, it is crucial to closely engage with its representatives to receive guidance and adjust our actions as needed,” stated Ukraine’s Defense Minister.

The parties discussed progress on agreements reached at the recent NATO summit in Washington, including the provision of air defense systems and the implementation of the JATEC and NSATU projects. 

Rustem Umerov also briefed the Senior NATO Representative on the Defense Ministry’s priorities. In cooperation with other ministries, the Ministry of Defense works as one team to bring Ukraine closer to NATO.

Patrick Turner, in turn, highlighted the substantial progress in reforming Ukraine’s Armed Forces, acknowledging that the transformation of the Ukrainian military is evident.

Rustem Umerov informed the Head of the NATO Representation about North Korean military involvement in the escalation of aggression against Ukraine and proposed holding the next Ukraine-NATO Council meeting at the defense minister level in Kyiv.

“We continue our dialogue with NATO, aligning our shared plans for the end of this year and for 2025. I thank Mr. Patrick for this important meeting. We will keep strengthening our cooperation to achieve our critical goal – Ukraine’s membership in NATO,” Ukraine’s Defense Minister emphasized.