Ukraine discusses defense cooperation with Czech Republic, Italy

ISTANBUL

Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov met his counterparts in the Czech Republic and Italy to discuss military assistance, defense industry cooperation, and battlefield needs, the Defense Ministry said on Saturday.

In Prague, Umerov expressed gratitude to Czech Defense Minister Jana Cernochova for military support since the start of the war.

He emphasized the importance of the “Czech Initiative,” which has supplied Ukraine with hundreds of thousands of munitions, and discussed expanding its funding and efficiency.

The talks also covered further assistance in training and equipping Ukrainian troops according to NATO standards.

“Czechia was among the first to help Ukraine after February 24, 2022. We will always remember this support,” Umerov said.

During his visit to Rome, Umerov held discussions with Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto on Ukraine’s priority military needs, including air defense systems and ammunition supplies.

The two sides explored ways to enhance industrial cooperation, with Ukraine expressing readiness to establish joint ventures and attract investment to strengthen its defense sector.

Umerov highlighted future opportunities in drone technology and maritime defense, thanking Italy for its leadership in supporting Ukraine.