In Vilnius, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Prime Minister of Finland Petteri Orpo.
The main topics of discussion included defense support for Ukraine, the Civil Protection Shelter Coalition, and EU membership.
Petteri Orpo assured that Ukrainians can count on continued military assistance from Finland. Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the new package of defense aid.
Special attention during the meeting was given to Ukraine’s defense capabilities – the potential for direct investment in domestic production of weapons, including drones, as well as joint arms manufacturing in Ukraine and Finland.
The Prime Minister noted that the best technologies are currently concentrated in Ukraine, and that every European country should follow this example by developing its own domestic production.
The President outlined details of the “Drone Line” project, its proven effectiveness, and specific ideas for scaling it up. This initiative shows that security can depend not only on those standing on the ground, which is why its development is so important.
Separately, the Head of State shared expectations for today’s meeting in Istanbul. According to him, Ukraine counts on a ceasefire, a prisoner exchange, the return of abducted children, and a meeting at the level of leaders. However, Russia is not ready for this.
In addition, the President and the Prime Minister discussed cooperation within the Civil Protection Shelter Coalition.
“I hope we can count on other partners to join your initiative. This is especially urgent before the start of the school year, because it is critically important for our schools, our children, and all our people. Thank you very much,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
He added that due to constant Russian attacks, Ukraine needs to strengthen its air defense and is counting on the relevant pressure that will force Russia to stop.
The Head of State also emphasized: strong Ukrainian representation at the NATO Summit will send a clear message to Russia that it cannot dictate its agenda on the North Atlantic Alliance.
