The Ukrainian Minister of Strategic Industries, Oleksandr Kamyshev, stated on Sunday that his country has tripled its weapons production compared to last year, with 500 companies currently operating in the country’s defense sector. Kyiv is looking for ways to bolster its defenses against the ongoing Russian invasion for two years, including enhancing local weapons production and innovation.
Kamyshev added during a conference in Kyiv, broadcasted on television, that 100 state-owned companies and 400 private companies are engaged in this effort, and Ukraine plans “to significantly increase ammunition production this year.” In a separate address, Ukrainian Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov said that 90% of the drones used on the battlefield against Russian forces are produced in Ukraine.
Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko noted during the conference that not a single weapon has crossed the border from Ukraine to the European Union during the two years of the comprehensive Russian invasion.
The European Union has pledged to supply Ukraine with over 1 million rounds of ammunition by the end of 2024 to support its defense against Russia. Despite a previous commitment for 2023, only a portion has been fulfilled so far, leading to shortages for Ukrainian forces. The EU defense industry’s capacity has seen a significant increase, with an expectation to exceed the pledged amount by the year’s end. This support is part of the EU’s broader assistance to Ukraine, totaling over €88 billion, with a significant portion dedicated to military aid. The decision to increase ammunition production is crucial for Europe’s collective security and underscores the EU’s commitment to support Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict
