Ukraine seeks air defence, artillery and drone support ahead of June Ramstein reeting

By Martin Chomsky (Defence Industry Europe)

NATO |
Ukraine seeks air defence, artillery and drone support ahead of June Ramstein reeting

Photo: Swedish Armed Forces.

Ukraine’s Minister of Defence, Mykhailo Fedorov, held a call with German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, UK Defence Secretary John Healey and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The talks focused on Ukraine’s key requirements ahead of the next Ramstein-format meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, scheduled for June.

The main objective of the discussion was to maximise the effectiveness of international support for Ukraine. The parties focused on priorities that strengthen the Defence Forces of Ukraine and respond to the real needs of the front line.

Particular attention was given to air defence. Ukraine said this remains critically important as Russia continues to intensify aerial attacks.

According to the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, Russia launched more than 30 ballistic missiles in a single night during its most recent large-scale attack. Ukraine said Russia is increasing strikes against cities and critical infrastructure because it has been unable to achieve success on the battlefield.

 

 

For this reason, strengthening air defence and counter-ballistic capabilities remains one of Ukraine’s top priorities. The issue is expected to be central to Ukraine’s requests at the next Ramstein-format meeting.

Ukraine is seeking partner support in three priority areas. These include additional contributions to the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List mechanism and the procurement of PAC-3 missiles through JUMPSTART.

Kyiv is also seeking extended-range artillery ammunition under the Czech Initiative. A further priority is funding for the production of Ukrainian drones.

Fedorov stressed that it is crucial for Ukraine that international assistance be as effective as possible. He said support must be precisely tailored to the needs of Ukrainian warriors.

Alongside international support mechanisms, bilateral assistance from partner nations remains critically important. Ukraine said this is necessary for implementing its defence strategy, strengthening its Defence Forces and maintaining an advantage across key domains of warfare.

Fedorov expressed gratitude to Germany, the United Kingdom and NATO for their support of Ukraine. He also thanked them for their commitment to deepening cooperation.