President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukraine allocates about 45-50 billion dollars annually for arms production. According to him, this is an unprecedented level of funding for the state, which allows for sustainable support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and long-term security for the country.
This is reported by Finway
Unprecedented Funding for the Defense Sector
During a conversation with media representatives alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, the president emphasized that such investments are a significant achievement. He highlighted that Ukraine has reached this level of funding thanks to targeted efforts and the availability of resources to support the national army. Zelensky noted that it is important to address not only current needs but also to create a foundation for long-term stability and defense capability of the country.
“Right now, Ukraine is directing about 45-50 billion dollars a year towards weapons production. We have managed to achieve what I believe is a very high level. We have the funds to finance the Armed Forces of Ukraine. We must ensure that sufficient level for both production and the army, not just ‘for now’, for these years, but more long-term. This is an ambitious task, it is a real working guarantee of security for Ukraine, for our people, for our independence,” he said.
Preparation for International Summits and New Security Guarantees
During the meeting with Mark Rutte, issues were discussed that could strengthen long-term financial guarantees for Ukraine. Zelensky reported that the Ukrainian delegation will work on this both at the G7 summit and at the NATO summit in Ankara. The president thanked the NATO Secretary General for the invitation to participate in the event and emphasized that the team will focus on ensuring financial support for the defense sector.
Additionally, Zelensky expects a report on the implementation of agreements at the highest political level concerning the procurement of Patriot air defense systems. This information is to be provided by June 5, underscoring the importance of urgently strengthening the country’s defense capability in the face of ongoing challenges.