President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine is working on mechanisms to export domestically produced weapons and aims to turn arms exports into a long-term source of economic strength. Kyiv also expects to begin receiving funds from the European Union’s €90 billion support package as early as June.
Zelenskyy made the remarks during his evening address.
According to the president, he held a detailed meeting focused on Ukraine’s weapons production, discussing both the country’s defense needs and opportunities to export products from the domestic defense industry.
“Arms exports should become a long-term source of economic strength for Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said.
He noted that the National Security and Defense Council, the Ministry of Defense, and parliament are working on the necessary regulatory changes to ensure the implementation of relevant decisions is not delayed.
The president also said the government is actively working to secure funding from the EU’s previously approved €90 billion support package.
According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine fought for the adoption of the package and is now working to ensure the funds begin flowing this summer. The money is expected to support the country’s resilience, defense capabilities, and assistance programs for Ukrainian citizens.
Zelenskyy also reported progress in Ukraine’s negotiations on European Union membership.
“We will have a very clear schedule of opportunities for progress in the negotiations, especially after the changes in Hungary,” he said.
The president noted that Ukraine has fulfilled its part of the process and hopes to move toward opening negotiating clusters as early as June, paving the way for the next stage of EU accession talks.
In addition, Kyiv is preparing meetings with several of its key European partners. Zelenskyy said Ukraine’s priorities remain strengthening air defense, increasing sanctions pressure on Russia, expanding joint weapons production with allies, and providing support for Ukrainians affected by the war.
“Ukrainians must feel that our state is not alone in its defense,” Zelenskyy concluded.
