PM Shmyhal says international partners running low on ammo stocks

Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shymhal addressed the issue in an interview with Financial Times, Ukrinform reports.

The prime minister noted ammunition shortage not only in Ukraine but also across the world, adding that munitions should nbe produced in Ukraine in larger volumes given the gradual depletion of international stocks.

According to him, domestic production of drones has increased from several dozens last year to tens of thousands in 2023. Ukraine is also redistributing budget funds to focus on the military defense complex, including air defense and artillery.

But building the industry for projectile, artillery, and air defense procurement is a much more complicated and ambitious task than the production of drones in the face of global shortage of key components and raw materials, Shmyhal noted.

The priority task, he stressed, is now to establish joint ventures with European and American defense companies. This summer, the Ukrainian state-run defense conglomerate Ukroboronprom concluded an agreement with the German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall to repair damaged Leopard tanks and other armored vehicles, as well as produce new units.

According to Shmyhal, it is one of about 20 agreements signed with different companies.

Shmyhal chose not to comment on possible consequences of potential prospects of Donald Trump’s re-election in 2024 and the corresponding cut of U.S. assistance to Ukraine.

He only noted a number of political challenges Ukraine is facing as its partners are going through a process of transformation, hinting at the June elections in the EU.

At the same time, Shmyhal expressed hope that the White House would follow up on its promises of long-term support for Ukraine.

According to Ukrinform, the Pentagon confirmed that the United States is able to provide assistance to Ukraine and Israel at the same time.