European Commissioner Marta Kos believes that Ukraine is an indispensable partner for the European Union in building up European defense and the defense-industrial sector.
She stated this at the opening of the Ukraine–EU Business Summit in Brussels.
“It is becoming clear how central Ukraine is to European defense, and increasingly to the economic security of our continent,” Kos said.
She referred to the situation in the Persian Gulf, where Ukraine is currently using its drone innovations and software in combat operations.
“These are capabilities that no other military force can match,” the European Commissioner said. “Ukrainians are increasingly creating an ‘Arsenal of Democracy.’ Ukraine is becoming an indispensable partner in Europe’s efforts to rebuild our defense industry and armed forces. These efforts must be guided by Ukraine’s experience.”
At the same time, Kos believes that Ukraine is becoming a provider of security for the European economy.
She cited two examples: critical raw materials and dual-use products.
“Critical raw materials are central to the modern economy. By relying on a single supplier of such vital assets, we open the door to potential blackmail. Ukraine is one of the places in Europe where large quantities of some of these materials are found. Our goal is to integrate Ukraine into pan-European critical raw materials value chains,” the Commissioner added.
She recalled that the strategic partnership between the EU and Ukraine on critical raw materials has been in place since 2021. Now, together with the Ukrainian government, the EU has increased support for European companies to build a portfolio of investment projects in this critical sector.
“Dual-use products are another area that is crucial for economic security. That is why the Ukraine Investment Framework now also covers sectors whose products have both military and civilian applications,” Kos said.
