Weapons, air defense, and industrial development: Rustem Umerov outlined Ukraine's priorities at the E5 meeting

Ukraine's Defence Minister Rustem Umerov participated via video conference in a meeting of the E5 group of countries, which includes Poland, Germany, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom.

“This is a new alliance of nations with the largest defense budgets among European countries, working together to strengthen European security and support Ukraine,” the Ukrainian Defence Minister stated.

The group plays a leading role in defense Coalitions supporting the Ukrainian Armed Forces: armored vehicles (Germany and Poland), artillery (France), air and missile defense (France and Germany), drones, and maritime security (United Kingdom).

During the meeting, the parties discussed Ukraine's key defense priorities for 2025:

– Weapons for the front: artillery shells, long-range weapons, Western armored vehicles.

– Strengthening air defense: new air defense systems and munitions to counter russian missiles and drones.

– Development of the defense industry: In 2025, Ukraine plans to achieve a record $35 billion in weapon production, of which $17 billion will be financed by the Ukrainian government. Ukraine's allies can provide the remaining funds.

The Minister of Defence of Ukraine stated that approving the Capabilities Coalitions Roadmaps until 2027 marked a significant achievement. This sends a clear signal that Europe is ready to plan its support for Ukraine for years to come.

“The defense ministers reaffirmed that military assistance to Ukraine will continue, as it is an investment in peace and stability on our continent. Brave decisions, unity, and the strategic vision of our allies bring us closer to victory,” Rustem Umerov emphasized.