Ukraine’s Defense Minister Outlines Military Goals to Foreign Mission Heads

At the annual meeting of heads of Ukraine's foreign diplomatic missions, the newly appointed Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal outlined key defense priorities, including the development of the domestic military industrial complex, expanding international cooperation, and providing the army with modern defense equipment.

The Gaze writes on this with the reference to a post of Denys Shmyhal in Telegram.

During his speech, he emphasized the importance of strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities, in particular through the active development of its own arms production so that at least half of the needs are covered by Ukrainian equipment. 

The Defense Minister also stressed the need to attract foreign companies to work together in Ukraine and to expand international assistance, including the contribution of neutral countries.

In addition, Shmyhal noted the necessity of additional funding for the development of Ukrainian industry, including the production of FPV drones, long-range drones and interceptors.

In his message, the newly appointed Defense Minister declared Ukraine's readiness to share its unique combat experience, technologies, and innovations with partners. “We offer our allies to create joint ventures, transfer licenses and open production facilities in partner countries,” he wrote.

Shmyhal also pointed out that Ukraine will need at least $120 billion for defense next year. “We are working with other countries to raise half of this amount with the support of our allies,” he added.

As The Gaze previously reported, the Ukrainian Parliament has appointed former Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal as the country’s new Minister of Defense, marking a significant reshuffle in Ukraine’s leadership amid ongoing efforts to strengthen national security and adapt to evolving wartime challenges.