Ukraine’s Defense Minister joins Ramstein meeting: Key topics revealed
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov (Photo: RBC-Ukraine, Vitalii Nosach)
Today, February 12, UK Defense Secretary John Healey will chair the Ramstein meeting for the first time. The agenda includes accelerating arms deliveries to Ukraine and other key security issues, according to Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.
"I am beginning work at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting in the Ramstein format in Brussels. This is a crucial step in strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities and coordinating further actions with allies," Umerov stated.
For the first time, new US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will also participate in the discussions.
Key topics on the agenda include:
- Ensuring stable and timely military aid to Ukraine in 2025
- Boosting deliveries of critical weapons, including air defense systems, aviation, and ammunition
- Investments in Ukraine’s defense industry and joint projects with European partners
Additionally, long-term initiatives will be discussed:
- Expanding Ukraine’s defense production capacity
- Funding Ukraine’s defense sector and establishing new enterprises
- Increasing arms supplies through European defense industry capabilities
Key events this week
Beyond the Ramstein meeting, several other major security events are set to take place:
- NATO-Ukraine Council meeting at the defense minister level
- Munich Security Conference
Umerov also plans to hold bilateral meetings with allied defense ministers to enhance military cooperation and discuss concrete support mechanisms for Ukraine.
"Ukraine is ready for negotiations to end the war. However, a just and lasting peace is only possible when Ukraine is strong on the battlefield," he added.
Ramstein meetings
The Ramstein meetings are gatherings of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG), initiated by the United States in April 2022 at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. These meetings bring together dozens of nations supporting Ukraine's fight against Russia.
The discussions focus on Ukraine’s immediate defense needs and long-term military support strategies. Thanks to Ramstein, Ukraine has received modern air defense systems, tanks, and artillery and confirmed commitments from international partners.
