Rustem Umerov and Jenny Carignan. Photo: Ministry of Defence of Ukraine
On 19 January, Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov met with General Jenny Carignan, Chief of the Canadian Defence Staff, to discuss further cooperation in the military sphere. During the meeting, Umerov expressed his gratitude to Canada for its strong support, including investments in financing the production of Ukrainian drones based on the so-called “Danish model”.
“Thanks to the investments of our allies, Ukraine is one of the leaders in the production of UAVs, ground robotic systems and electronic warfare systems. I am grateful for Canada’s strong support, in particular in financing the production of Ukrainian drones,” Rustem Umerov said.
In her turn, General Carignan stressed that Canada is committed to further strengthening its assistance to Ukraine, noting the importance of such a strategic partnership.
Umerov also outlined the areas in which Ukraine needs to increase supplies: air defence systems, heavy armour and certain types of ammunition. The minister also stressed the need to strengthen cooperation in the field of deepstrike, which includes both the supply of Western weapons and the promotion of Ukrainian long-range weapons production.