UKRAINE IS READY TO EXPORT ITS WEAPONS, LIKE DRONES THAT HELPED IT CRIPPLE RUSSIA'S BLACK SEA FLEET

Ukraine is preparing to open up parts of its fast-growing defense industry to exports, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced this week. Despite the ongoing war, Kyiv sees carefully controlled sales of surplus production as a way to strengthen both its industry and military capacity.

Zelenskyy pointed to naval drones and anti-tank systems as examples where Ukraine now produces more than it needs. By exporting the excess, the government hopes to channel funds into areas facing constant shortfalls, particularly aerial drones. “During a war, no one wants to take risks, but we need money to produce very necessary types of weapons for the front,” he said.

Ukraine’s defense industry has grown rapidly: 30% of the military’s equipment last year was made domestically, a figure Zelenskyy aims to raise to 50% by the end of 2025. Industry leaders argue exports would improve efficiency, drive innovation, and allow companies to produce at scale.

Kyiv is also keen to ensure exports serve political as well as military goals. Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine will only cooperate with countries that have supported its independence. Within two weeks, Ukraine plans to present three new export platforms — targeting the U.S., Europe, and trusted partner nations. Read more in Business Insider.