Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held high-level meetings with European leaders in Yerevan on Sunday, ahead of the 8th European Political Community summit scheduled for Monday.
During the visit, Zelenskyy met with the prime ministers of Norway, the United Kingdom, Finland, and the Czech Republic, focusing on defense cooperation, energy security, and long-term strategic partnerships.
In talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, discussions centered on expanding military collaboration, including a potential drone agreement, strengthening air defense systems, and enhancing bilateral defense coordination. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Norway’s support, highlighting nearly $1 billion in contributions under the PURL (Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List) initiative. He stressed that continued funding is essential due to ongoing Russian missile attacks and upcoming winter energy challenges.
Zelenskyy also briefed the Norwegian leader on Ukraine’s urgent energy needs, particularly natural gas supplies for the winter season, acknowledging Norway’s readiness to assist.
In a separate meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the Ukrainian president discussed support for Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, defense cooperation, and contributions to the PURL program. The leaders also addressed broader security issues, including efforts to counter Russia’s so-called shadow fleet and potential peace negotiations.
Zelenskyy praised the United Kingdom’s continued support in strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities and maintaining pressure on Russia.
Talks with Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš focused on expanding bilateral cooperation and accelerating Ukraine’s integration into the European Union. Both sides acknowledged significant potential for deeper political and economic ties.
Separately, discussions with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo centered on defense collaboration under a proposed “Drone Deal” framework. The initiative aims to enhance cooperation in drone production, missile systems, ammunition supply, and defense technology sharing. Finland recently approved an additional $300 million defense package for Ukraine, a move Zelenskyy welcomed as critical for strengthening air defense capabilities.
Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine is working toward expanding weapons exports and building new international defense partnerships across Europe, the Middle East, and the Caucasus under the evolving Drone Deal strategy.
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