Ukraine Plans Record Defense Spending and Production

Ukraine is ramping up its domestic weapons production in response to ongoing conflict, with a record defense budget of UAH 2.23 trillion allocated for 2025. This includes UAH 739 billion dedicated specifically to weapons and military equipment. President Zelenskyy has mandated the production of at least 30,000 long-range drones and 3,000 cruise missiles, supported by the 'Weapons of Victory' project which will establish long-term contracts with manufacturers. Ukrainian defense firms aim to expand their production capacity to $30 billion, whilst adopting a 'Danish model' to facilitate international sales to support the Ukrainian military. The country is also collaborating with allies to establish joint arms production facilities, having received significant financial support from Denmark, France, and Lithuania. Overall, Ukraine is enhancing its self-reliance in defense and military capabilities amid escalating tensions with Russia.