Ramstein-19: Focus on Increasing Defence Production, Drones, Artillery and Air Defence for Ukraine
"Along with Chief of General Staff Syrskyi and Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate Budanov, we are geared towards productive work. We will focus on increasing defence production, drones, and technologies, as well as preparation for long-term challenges and addressing urgent needs. Expect good news," Umierov wrote.
In turn, United States Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin stated that the meeting will also address Ukraine's short-term needs, including its urgent requirement for more artillery, ammunition, and air defence missiles.
He emphasized that the coalition of around 50 countries continues to provide Ukrainians with much-needed ammunition and weaponry. In this regard, Austin thanked coalition members for supporting Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of enhancing the future potential of its Armed Forces.
"This means increasing Ukrainian artillery and providing it with sufficient ammunition, equipping Ukraine with F-16 aircraft and flight infrastructure, and also providing an integrated air defence network in Ukraine to protect civilians, cities, and skies," the US Secretary of Defence stressed.
Austin called on coalition members to continue this support amidst Russia's attacks on Ukrainian cities with ballistic missiles and Iranian drones. He stressed that the United States will exert efforts to provide Ukrainians with necessary assistance and to unite allies and partners around Ukraine. Austin emphasized that this is a matter of the national interests of the United States.
Also, during the Ramstein-19 meeting, it was announced that 10 countries of the IT coalition signed a 6-year cooperation agreement. Estonia and Luxembourg joined as leading countries, along with Belgium, Denmark, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, and Ukraine. Additionally, the United Kingdom completed its accession to the IT coalition by signing a declaration of intent.