KYIV: President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Friday that Ukraine and the United States have reached an agreement to initiate collaborative weapons manufacturing. This strategic move is expected to enable Kyiv to commence the production of air defense systems, a significant development as Ukraine grapples with the aftermath of Russia’s invasion and prolonged conflict.
During his daily address to the Ukrainian public, President Zelensky underscored the far-reaching implications of this long-term agreement. He highlighted the potential for job creation and the establishment of a new industrial base in Ukraine, a crucial step in reviving the country’s economy, which has been severely impacted by the ongoing war.
In a video message posted on the presidential website, Zelensky emphasized the importance of his visit to Washington and the promising outcomes it yielded. He described the collaboration in defense sector co-production with the United States as a historic milestone in Ukraine’s efforts to bolster its domestic weapons production capacity.
The urgency for enhancing Ukraine’s ability to manufacture weaponry domestically has intensified over the 19 months of conflict, as there has been a pressing need for arms and ammunition to counter Russian aggression along a vast 1,000-kilometer front line. Widespread damage and casualties caused by Russian air strikes across Ukraine have further underscored the necessity for self-sufficiency in defense production.
President Zelensky disclosed that the Ministry for Strategic Industries, responsible for overseeing weapons production in Ukraine, has forged cooperation agreements with three associations comprising over 2,000 defense companies from the United States. While specific details remain undisclosed, Zelensky conveyed the vision of establishing a new defense ecosystem in partnership with the United States to reinforce freedom and safeguard lives.
Ukraine’s reliance on Western military support has been substantial, prompting the Zelensky administration to push for reforms in the domestic defense industry. These reforms aim to modernize local defense producers and ramp up supplies to the front lines, reducing dependence on external aid.
As part of this initiative, Ukraine is set to host an international arms production forum, extending invitations to companies from more than 20 countries. Simultaneously, the government is implementing reforms at its primary weapons production entity, Ukroboronprom. These reforms are designed to enhance transparency, bolster production capacity, and foster more active collaboration with Western manufacturers.
Ukraine has previously engaged in collaborative projects with Central European partners for the repair of Ukrainian military vehicles. Additionally, efforts are underway to develop domestic capabilities in drone and missile production, reflecting Ukraine’s commitment to strengthening its defense industry.
Source: Reuters
