Minister of Defence of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal met with Minister of Defence of the Netherlands Ruben Brekelmans to discuss the launch of joint production of deep-strike UAVs.

The Minister of Defence of Ukraine reported this on social media.

“We appreciate this visit on a day when Russia carried out a massive attack on our energy and civilian infrastructure. I informed my colleague about the consequences of the overnight strikes. We also discussed in detail the implementation of the provisions of the Memorandum of Understanding, which we signed today in the presence of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy”, — said Denys Shmyhal.

The agreement provides for the launch of joint deep-strike UAV production in the Netherlands, involving €110 million in investments within the framework of the Build with Ukraine initiative.

“We also focused on our key priorities: increasing drone production for the front and the protection of cities, strengthening the long-range capabilities of the Defence Forces, and reinforcing sanctions pressure on the aggressor”, — the Minister of Defence of Ukraine stated.

He noted the special role of the Netherlands in enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities: support under the PURL initiative, transfer of F-16 aircraft, air defense systems, and assistance in the development of defense production.

“I sincerely thank the Government and the people of the Netherlands, as well as Mr. Brekelmans personally, for their strong contribution to our common victory”, — said Denys Shmyhal.