While Ukraine seeks €18B in defense investment, the allies plan to discuss its security guarantees.

In 2025, the Ukrainian defense industry’s production potential could reach €34B, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said at the annual conference of the European Defense Agency. He noted that this requires support from the EU, in particular:

1. funding in the amount of €18B (Ukraine is able to provide €16B)
2. transfer of military technologies
3. partnership with European companies

According to Umerov, the EU’s main security priority in 2025 should be to increase investment in the production of military equipment, particularly air defense and missile defense systems, armored vehicles, and artillery systems.

“Supporting Ukrainian defense production is a strategic contribution to the security of Europe. Joint efforts and strong decisions will help make 2025 a year of just peace for Ukraine and all of Europe,” Umerov added.

Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said the allies will discuss security guarantees for post-war Ukraine. The allies will also discuss ways to maintain a strong Ukrainian army, which will be “equipped together.”