(Reuters) – Ukraine’s presidential chief of staff has expressed his hope that a conference on joint Ukrainian-U.S. weapons production will be held in the United States next month. Andriy Yermak stated that the conference will focus on the collaboration between Ukraine and its most important military supplier, the United States, following a significant agreement between President Zelenskiy and President Biden.
Yermak made these remarks during an appearance on the Moseychuk+ show on Ukrainian 1+1 TV channel.
In light of concerns about potential shortages in Western military supplies, Ukraine is prioritizing the development of its own defense production capabilities. The country also aims to leverage joint ventures with international armament producers to revive its domestic industry, which has long suffered from inefficiency and lack of transparency, particularly before Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
Ukraine recently established a joint defense venture with German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall AG to service and repair Western weapons. Additionally, in September, the country hosted an international defense industry forum with more than 250 Western weapons producers in attendance.
The hope is that such initiatives will not only address existing challenges in Ukraine’s defense industry, but also help the nation become more self-sufficient in meeting its military needs. Diplomatic efforts and agreements like the one between Zelenskiy and Biden will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future of Ukraine’s defense capabilities and partnerships.
As efforts to bolster Ukraine’s defense production continue, it remains to be seen how successful these collaborations and joint ventures with international partners will be in reviving the country’s domestic industry and ensuring a steady supply of military equipment.
Yuliia Dysa reporting; Peter Graff editing.
