Prior to Ramstein, Ukraine discussed cooperation with Belgium and Spain

Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov held talks with Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken and Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles. During the discussions, the parties agreed on key priorities for defense cooperation ahead of the Ramstein meeting.

Fedorov reported this on Telegram.

“We have synchronized key areas of cooperation—strengthening air defense, developing drone capabilities, and the ‘Czech Initiative’ to provide the front lines with long-range artillery,” Fedorov noted.

Belgium is allocating €1 billion in defense aid to Ukraine this year. The country also confirmed its intention to transfer additional F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine and ensure the supply of spare parts for existing aircraft.

This year, Spain is also providing €1 billion in support of Ukraine. During the meeting, attention was given to developing cooperation between defense industries, particularly within the framework of the European SAFE mechanism. Ukraine is ready to provide a list of manufacturers that can establish cooperation with Spanish companies.

Ukraine also offered the opportunity to test Spanish drones in combat conditions.

Fedorov thanked Belgium and Spain for their consistent support.

“Thanks to win-win cooperation with partners, Ukraine continues to hold back the enemy’s advance on the ground and de-occupy territories, defend the skies and improve the effectiveness of intercepting missiles and drones, as well as intensify strikes against Russia’s economy,” Fedorov emphasized.

Ukraine and Norway have agreed on new steps in defense.

Additionally, Ukraine’s Ambassador to the EU stated that the U.S. remains an ally.

During the exchange, 40 Ministry of Internal Affairs employees were returned to Ukraine.