Ukraine proposes joint weapon production with France using frozen Russian funds

Ukraine has proposed a new initiative to collaborate with France on weapon production, utilizing revenue from frozen Russian assets to finance the projects, the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine said.

Serhii Boev, Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Defence, met with Pierre Elbrun, the French President's Special Representative for Ukraine's Aid and Reconstruction, to discuss the proposal, Caliber.Az reports citing Ukrainian media.

During the meeting, the two parties explored the idea of establishing joint enterprises between Ukrainian and French defense companies, tailored to Ukraine’s military needs. Several potential projects were identified that could be financed using the funds seized from Russian assets.

Boev emphasized Ukraine's ongoing military requirements, which include air defense and missile defense systems, interceptor missiles, heavy armored vehicles, and ammunition. 

"In addition to investment and production development, Ukraine is also interested in purchasing ready-made weapons. The needs remain significant, the situation at the front is dynamic, so we require quick solutions," said Boev.

France has been a key partner to Ukraine since the onset of the conflict with Russia, providing substantial military aid. This assistance includes artillery, Mirage 2000 aircraft, armored vehicles, ammunition, long-range missiles, and advanced air defense systems. Furthermore, French President Emmanuel Macron has been an advocate for Ukraine's European integration and its path to NATO. Macron also suggested the potential deployment of a peacekeeping contingent to Ukraine, underlining France’s commitment to supporting the country.

The meeting between Boev and Elbrun also touched upon the broader context of international support for Ukraine, including the collaboration with the United States. Macron’s recent visit to Washington, where he discussed the war in Ukraine with President Donald Trump, underscored the growing international efforts to aid Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression.

This proposed collaboration marks a significant step in strengthening Ukraine’s defence capabilities, with the utilization of frozen Russian assets offering a potential funding avenue for much-needed military equipment. The partnership with France also highlights the continued importance of international cooperation in Ukraine's struggle for sovereignty and security.

By Vafa Guliyeva