Minister of Strategic Industries of Ukraine Alexander Kamyshin spoke at the EU-Ukraine Defence Industry Forum held in Brussels on 6 May. We publish the text of his speech below.

Dear ladies and gentlemen, high representatives, ambassadors, Ministers, industry people. First of all, I would like to thank each of you, all of your states, who stands with us for already 803 days. Without you we would never be capable to stand for all this time. Thank you.

I am pleased to meet you today at this historical event, the first EU-Ukraine Defence Industries Forum, which also marks the third multilateral international defence industries forum co-hosted by Ukraine.

Two months ago, the European Commission presented the first-ever defense industrial strategy of united Europe. The Strategy is not only highlighting that a closer cooperation between the Ukrainian and the EU defence industries will be a part of the EU’s security commitments to Ukraine, but also identifies Ukrainian industry as a crucial component of the broader European industry. This recognition is extremely important.

It underscores that Ukraine's future lies with the European Union. By developing the Ukrainian defense technological and industrial base, we are enhancing our joint capabilities. Strengthening Ukraine's defense industry is strengthening the defense of all of Europe.

Ukraine is engaged in a war for its freedom and independence, facing Russia’s unprovoked aggression — an assault not only against Ukraine but also against the whole free world, the rules-based order, democracy, and human rights, particularly in Europe. The EU and its Member States, alongside the US, the UK, Australia, Canada, Norway, and other allies, have stood with Ukraine to counter this brutal aggression.

Ukraine is forever grateful for all the support the EU and its Member States have delivered and continue to provide. But over the last year, we have also significantly ramped up our own capabilities — and we aim to further develop them in cooperation with our allies.

The war against Russian aggression, as well as other global conflicts, reveals that no single nation can meet all its needs by its own defense industrial complex. Collective security is essential for any free nation’s ability to defend its freedom and independence.

Next month, the Global Peace Summit will take place in Switzerland to discuss the Ukrainian Peace Formula. The main objective of this formula is to unite the global community to compel Russia towards peace and ensure a just end to the war in Ukraine.

This initiative is crucial not only for Ukrainians but also for a global precedent. We used to take peace for granted, as a constant; however, the reality is different — we see armed conflicts erupting around the world.

We must actively fight for a peaceful life. The Ukrainian Peace Formula seeks to unite all countries against war, creating an effective mechanism to counter any acts of military aggression in the future.

A strong and united defense industry is a vital element of this mechanism. Not only Russia but other aggressor countries must understand that their actions will not be unpunished. This is why freedom must be armed better than tyranny.

We see ourselves as a member of the European family. As we begin the process of joining the EU, we see our defense industry as an integral part of the EU’s defense industrial base, contributing to the collective security of the EU’s Member States.

Ukraine’s industry has much to offer its European partners. We boast a robust defense base of 500 companies employing 300,000 people, which has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of aggression.

We are here today with 39 companies coming from Ukraine. Including Ukroboronprom CEO which runs roughly 70+ factories, including private defense industry associations, including another companies coming from Ukraine.

Speaking to European defense industry companies, I kindly ask you to speak more to Ukrainian companies. See what they produce, explain them how it works for you, and find things you can make together with them.

Speaking to Ukrainian companies — don't be shy. Speak to European colleagues. Show things you make in Ukraine. Find ways how you make things together. Both parties will find development. I'm sure about it.

The Ukrainian defense industry is rapidly growing. Last year, the production of weapons and military equipment tripled. This year, contracts have already doubled compared to last year. But with your support, we can achieve even more.

The gap between the capability of our defense industry and the funds available for weapon procurement amounts to $10 billion this year only. We invite our partner countries to help close this gap through direct contracts with Ukrainian companies. This support is vital for both the Ukrainian Defense Forces and the Ukrainian economy.

We call this initiative ZBROYARI, which means "armourers" in Ukrainian — manufacturing freedom. It is a global fundraising project, and we urge all our partner countries to support the Ukrainian defense industry now, not only through long-term partnership programs but also through immediate decisions such as granting direct contracts to produce more weapons.

Two weeks ago, Denmark became the first country to join the ZBROYARI initiative. Denmark will be ordering weapons for the Ukrainian defense forces from Ukrainian manufacturers — and we are immensely grateful to the Danish people for this support.

Stay strong, stay united — and support Ukrainian weapon producers. I wish you a productive day and let`s build the Arsenal of the Free World together. Thank you.