On May 8, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha held a meeting with European Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius.
The parties discussed the European Union's support for Ukraine amid Russia’s full-scale aggression, ways to strengthen Ukraine’s capabilities in air defence and artillery ammunition, the implementation of new EU defence and security initiatives, and preparations for the Second Ukraine–EU Defence Industries Forum.
Andrii Sybiha also informed his interlocutor about the latest diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace for Ukraine.
The Minister emphasised the critical needs of Ukraine’s defenders and the priorities of Ukraine’s weapons production, which include air defence systems, drones, artillery, and ammunition.
The European Commissioner, in turn, noted that these priorities align with the key directions of EU defence industrial development under the "ReArm Europe" program. This further underscores the shared long-term interests and common security challenges facing both Ukraine and the European Union.
Special attention was paid to enhancing cooperation through the future SAFE instrument under the "ReArm Europe" plan. This tool will enable participating countries to launch joint defence-industrial projects with Ukraine and will also lay the groundwork for additional funding for military support to Ukraine.
The Minister thanked the European Commissioner for advancing mechanisms to expand defence assistance to Ukraine at the highest political level.
“European investment in Ukraine’s defence industry will strengthen the EU’s strategic autonomy and significantly boost the defence capabilities of European states. The development of Ukraine’s arms production and investment in the Ukrainian defence sector will bring concrete benefits. They will enable the production of more high-quality, high-tech weapons and unlock our vast potential. This win-win partnership is the best tool to deliver on key defence priorities. Ukraine stands ready to make a meaningful contribution to European security through innovative military technologies, unique experience in the defence industry, and a dynamic, forward-looking defence cluster,” said the Minister.
Andrii Sybiha and Andrius Kubilius coordinated next steps at all levels of interaction between Ukraine and the EU to deepen the defence-industrial partnership. This includes the deployment of new joint arms production lines that are most urgently needed by the Defence Forces of Ukraine, as well as the strengthening of Ukraine’s defence industry.
Both sides emphasized that during the upcoming Ukraine–EU Defence Industries Forum, a Joint Task Force will be launched to expand cooperation between the European and Ukrainian defence industries. This body will develop promising areas of collaboration from a technical standpoint and identify next steps.
The head of Ukraine’s foreign ministry expressed gratitude to the EU and its Member States for their unwavering military support for Ukraine and called for its further reinforcement amid ongoing Russian terror.
“We are proud of Ukrainian bravery, robust defence innovations, and technological solutions created in the face of the grave challenges posed by Russia’s full-scale war,” noted Andrius Kubilius.