Russia's brutal and bloody invasion of Ukraine continues. So does Denmark's steadfast and unwavering support for the Ukrainians' defense of their homeland and their freedom.
Today (July 4), the Minister for Trade and Industry, Morten Bødskov, and Ukraine's Minister for Strategic Industries, Herman Smetanin, have signed an agreement to strengthen cooperation in defense production between the two nations.
This entails that Denmark and Ukraine will collaborate to help Ukrainian defense companies establish branches in Denmark. Among other things, by assisting with production and export permits so that the products can be exported to Ukraine. Ukraine will ensure that necessary resources such as rights and technology can be transferred to Denmark to start production.
Furthermore, the two nations will remove obstacles to cooperation and protect shared technologies from misuse through various initiatives and projects.
Present at the signing was also Oleksandr Kamyshin, advisor to President Zelenskyy on strategic affairs.
Minister of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs Morten Bødskov says:
"Denmark stands side by side with Ukraine. We must support the Ukrainians on all fronts. I would like to thank the Ukrainian Minister for Strategic Industries, Herman Smetanin, for a good and close cooperation. With today's signing, we are now taking another important step together towards bringing Ukrainian defense companies to Denmark. In this way, we can share experiences and give a push to the Danish defense industry, while supporting the production of defense material for the Ukrainians' brave fight for freedom."
Minister for Strategic Industries in Ukraine Herman Smetanin says:
“One year ago, Denmark became the first country to start funding the production of weapons by Ukrainian manufacturers. Today, Denmark has become the first country to which Ukraine exports its own defense technologies for manufacturing, scaling, and delivery to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. This signing is a historic moment and a unique case for Ukraine’s defense industry. I am deeply grateful to Denmark for this strong support of Ukrainian defense production — for timely decisions and high-level defense cooperation. It means a lot to us. Denmark is a true friend to Ukraine’s defense industry and a trusted ally in our fight against the aggressor. Ukraine, in turn, will do everything possible to strengthen the defense capabilities of Denmark and its partners. Together, we are stronger!”
Advisor to President Zelenskyy on strategic affairs Oleksandr Kamyshin says:
“I remember how, in April last year, we were sincerely happy to receive the first donation from Denmark for the production of Ukrainian weapons. Today, our defence production has grown, strengthened, and is already becoming a pillar of security and defence capability across Europe. When our companies launch production in the EU, it is no longer about aid — it is about trust. It is about sustainable cooperation based on common interests and mutual benefit. Ukrainians know how to make weapons — and now, they will be produced together with Europe, for our shared security. I sincerely thank Denmark for its leadership and trust. Thank you for building the Arsenal of the Free World with us!”