Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on Western nations to commit 0.25% of their GDP to support Ukraine’s defense industry, as the war with Russia intensifies and Kyiv accelerates domestic weapons production.
Speaking ahead of a key NATO summit next week, Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine is not just defending its own borders but also Europe’s collective security. He urged allies like Germany, Canada, the UK, Denmark, Norway, and Lithuania to help fund joint weapons manufacturing initiatives.
“Ukraine is part of Europe’s security, and we are proposing that 0.25% of partner countries’ GDP be allocated to support our defense industry,” Zelensky said in a statement released Saturday by his office.
As the conflict with a better-equipped Russia escalates, Ukraine’s need for weapons and ammunition has become more urgent. Despite limited resources, Zelensky said Ukraine has already secured $43 billion in 2025 to boost its domestic arms production.
Currently, Ukraine meets about 40% of its defense needs through local manufacturing. But Kyiv’s ambitions are growing. According to Zelensky, Ukraine plans to sign international agreements this summer to begin exporting its military technologies and building joint production lines in other European countries under a new initiative titled “Build with Ukraine.”
This move will allow allied nations to not only support Ukraine’s defense directly but also participate in producing essential combat technologies like drones, missiles, and artillery systems.
Zelensky is expected to attend the upcoming NATO summit in The Hague, where leaders will discuss increased defense spending amid global tensions. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has proposed that member states raise their overall defense budget to 5% of GDP.
During the summit, Zelensky plans to hold sideline talks with several Western leaders and expressed hope of finally meeting U.S. President Donald Trump, whom he missed at last week’s G7 summit in Canada due to Trump’s early departure to address the Iran-Israel crisis.
The push for more international support also includes plans for Ukraine to jointly manufacture advanced weapon systems outside of its borders, strengthening its role as a defense technology hub.
This bold strategy comes as Ukraine tries to modernize its military infrastructure while ensuring it remains resilient against future threats.
