Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen met with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and Minister of Strategic Industries Herman Smetanin in Kyiv today, signing a declaration of intent to further cooperate on defense procurement, amounting to approximately DKK 4.2 billion ($600 million).
“This agreement demonstrates our unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine’s fight for freedom in every way we can,” said Poulsen. “I am pleased that Denmark has reached an understanding with Ukraine on how we can best allocate the DKK 4.2 billion provided by the EU and Denmark.”
The funding includes DKK 1.3 billion set aside by the Danish government with the backing of the Danish Parliament, along with DKK 2.9 billion from frozen Russian assets that Denmark is managing on behalf of the EU.
Denmark’s involvement will focus on direct procurement of weapons and defense equipment from Ukrainian manufacturers, a move that strengthens Ukraine’s capacity to produce the specific weapons needed in its ongoing conflict. “Denmark is leading the way by facilitating the direct donation of weapons produced by Ukraine’s own defense industry,” Poulsen noted, adding that the arrangement supports the country’s long-term self-sufficiency in defense production.
Earlier this year, Denmark financed the procurement of 18 Ukrainian-manufactured Bogdana artillery systems, which have already been delivered to Ukraine’s armed forces. This pilot project set the stage for further cooperation between the two nations in defense-related procurement.
Poulsen’s visit to Kyiv comes ahead of the upcoming Defence Industries Forum, set to take place from October 1 to 5. The forum will feature participation from a large delegation of Danish defense industry representatives, furthering industrial and defense ties between the two nations.
This latest agreement is part of Denmark’s broader effort to contribute to Ukraine’s defense, as both countries seek to reinforce their security collaboration. In addition to the financial aid, Denmark’s direct involvement in supporting Ukraine’s defense production is seen as a vital step in helping Ukraine maintain its defense capabilities in the face of ongoing challenges.
The cooperation is set to expand, with both sides looking at concrete procurement projects that will equip Ukraine’s armed forces with much-needed resources. Denmark’s commitment to this partnership, backed by significant financial resources and political will, underscores its leadership role in supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and long-term defense strategy.