Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Defense Anatoliy Klochko and a delegation from the Defense Industry Agency of the Italian Ministry of Defense discussed the possibility of using frozen Russian assets to purchase Italian-made air defense systems and ammunition during negotiations. This was reported by the press center of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry on January 11th on their Facebook page.
The meeting between Klochko and the Italian delegation focused on finding ways to strengthen the defense capabilities of Ukraine in light of ongoing aggression from Russia. The use of frozen Russian assets, which have been sanctioned by the international community due to their involvement in the conflict in Ukraine, was proposed as a potential source of funding for the procurement of much-needed air defense systems.
The Italian delegation, led by Defense Industry Agency Director General, Lt. Gen. Carlo Magrassi, expressed their willingness to cooperate with Ukraine in this matter. They also highlighted the high quality and advanced technology of Italian-made air defense systems, which have been successfully used by other countries.
Klochko praised the level of cooperation between Ukraine and Italy in the defense sector and emphasized the importance of further strengthening this partnership. He also expressed his gratitude to Italy for their unwavering support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of Russian aggression.
The use of frozen Russian assets to purchase Italian air defense systems would not only enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities, but it would also serve as a way to put pressure on Russia and hold them accountable for their actions in Ukraine. This move would also send a strong message to the international community that Ukraine is taking concrete steps to defend itself and is not relying solely on external assistance.
In addition to air defense systems, the possibility of purchasing ammunition for these systems from Italy was also discussed. This would ensure that Ukraine has a sufficient supply of ammunition for its air defense systems, which are crucial in protecting its airspace from potential threats.
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry’s announcement of these negotiations has been met with positive reactions from both the Ukrainian public and the international community. It is seen as a proactive and strategic move by Ukraine to strengthen its defense capabilities and take control of its own security.
The use of frozen Russian assets to purchase Italian air defense systems is just one example of the growing cooperation between Ukraine and its international partners in the defense sector. It demonstrates Ukraine’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces and enhancing its defense capabilities, despite facing ongoing aggression from Russia.
In conclusion, the negotiations between Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Defense Anatoliy Klochko and the Italian Defense Industry Agency have opened up new possibilities for Ukraine to strengthen its air defense capabilities. The use of frozen Russian assets to purchase Italian air defense systems and ammunition is a proactive and strategic move by Ukraine that will not only enhance its defense capabilities but also send a strong message to Russia and the international community. This partnership between Ukraine and Italy in the defense sector is a testament to the strong and growing relationship between the two countries.
