Denmark and Ukraine Forge Major Defense Partnership with 4.2 Billion DKK Investment

On September 29, 2024, Denmark and Ukraine solidified their cooperation in defense procurement, signing an agreement for a total investment of approximately 4.2 billion DKK (about $600 million). This development was announced during a meeting in Kyiv between Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and Minister of Strategic Industries Herman Smetanin.

The funding will be allocated for the acquisition of weapons and military equipment produced by Ukrainian manufacturers, aimed at enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities. The financial package includes 1.3 billion DKK from the Danish government, which has received support from the Danish Parliament, along with 2.9 billion DKK sourced from frozen Russian assets, which Denmark is managing on behalf of the European Union.

“This agreement underscores our commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense efforts,” stated Minister Poulsen, highlighting the strategic importance of the initiative. By facilitating direct procurement from Ukraine’s defense industry, Denmark aims to bolster the country’s ability to produce the weapons most needed in the ongoing war.

Earlier this year, Denmark had already initiated a pilot project that financed the acquisition of 18 Ukrainian-manufactured Bogdana artillery systems, which have since been delivered to Ukrainian armed forces. This pilot served as a precursor to the current agreement and reflects Denmark’s ongoing commitment to enhancing Ukraine’s defense infrastructure.

Minister Poulsen’s visit coincides with the upcoming Defence Industries Forum, scheduled to take place from October 1 to 5 in Kyiv. This forum will see a substantial presence from Danish defense industry representatives, further strengthening the industrial and defense ties between Denmark and Ukraine.