President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Minister of Defense of Italy Guido Crosetto to discuss opportunities for cooperation in the defense sector.
The Head of State thanked Italy for its political, military, and diplomatic support since the very beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Guido Crosetto assured that this assistance will continue.
The Ukrainian leader noted that during today’s meeting with the President of the Council of Ministers of Italy, the Drone Deal was discussed. Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine is ready to work to ensure proper protection everywhere. Our country is already cooperating for this purpose with nations in the Middle East and the Gulf region, and such a system of protection must also be built in Europe.
The Head of State stressed that Russia continues its terror against Ukraine and our people, and it is important to strengthen Ukrainian air defense with additional systems and missiles.
During the meeting, various formats of cooperation were discussed – both bilateral and multilateral with partners in Europe. In particular, Ukraine is ready to cooperate within the SAFE instrument.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Guido Crosetto share the same position: there is significant potential for defense cooperation, and it must be realized. Future partnership will cover many different areas, including capability development, exchange of experience, and industrial cooperation in various sectors: air defense, unmanned systems, ammunition, and the maritime sphere. The President expressed gratitude for Italy’s assurance of readiness in this regard.
The parties agreed to continue work on preparing the Drone Deal and defining all areas of cooperation.
