Shmyhal, Sánchez Discuss Joint Drone Production, Reconstruction, and Ukraine’s EU Path
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal began his official visit to Spain with high-level talks with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, focusing on deepening defense cooperation, Ukraine’s post-war recovery, and the country’s EU accession process.
The Gaze reports on this with reference to Shmyhal’s post on social media.
In a statement following the meeting, Shmyhal expressed gratitude for Spain’s unwavering support, noting that the country has provided Ukraine with more than €2 billion in assistance since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Of particular importance, he said, is the military support, including Spanish air defense systems that are helping shield Ukrainian cities from daily missile and drone attacks.
“We discussed the further strengthening of our defense cooperation. I outlined Ukraine’s key needs, especially air defense systems,” Shmyhal said. “Ukraine is proposing the establishment of joint production facilities for drones and other defense technologies.”
The leaders also focused on Ukraine’s post-war recovery. Shmyhal stressed the importance of unlocking frozen Russian assets, describing them as a critical financial resource for rebuilding the country’s devastated infrastructure.
On the topic of European integration, Shmyhal reiterated Ukraine’s determination to begin accession talks with the EU by the end of the year.
He called on Spain, a vocal advocate for Ukraine within the EU, to support this goal politically and diplomatically.
The timing of the visit is significant, as Spain is currently hosting the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development under the auspices of the United Nations.
Shmyhal voiced hope that the conference would yield “important and positive decisions that will bring peace closer and help secure a successful future for Ukraine.”
He concluded by thanking Spain for its leadership, solidarity, and consistent backing of Ukraine’s sovereignty and democratic aspirations.
As The Gaze reported earlier, on June 14, Spain is weighing a new package of military support to Ukraine, including cutting-edge air-defense radars and electronic warfare systems.