On Saturday, Denmark took a significant step forward in its support of Ukraine by committing to invest in the Ukrainian defense industry. During a visit to Ukraine, Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen and Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen signed a memorandum of understanding regarding an investment of 200 million Danish kroner. These funds, part of the 17th Danish aid package to Ukraine announced on April 16, are earmarked for the production of military equipment such as drones, missiles, and artillery.
One of the main features of this investment is that the production will take place in Ukraine with the help of local companies. Troels Lund Poulsen expressed hope that Denmark’s initiative will inspire other nations to also invest in Ukraine’s defense sector. He highlighted that if this initiative proves successful, Denmark is ready to increase its financial support further.
One of the major advantages of having the production localized in Ukraine, according to Poulsen, is that it will allow for faster delivery of equipment to the frontlines and simplify equipment maintenance. Present during the signing were also the new leader of the Conservative Party (De Konservative), Mona Juul, and defense spokesperson Christian Friis Bach, both of whom supported this new step in Danish Ukraine policy.
Earlier in the month, concerns were raised about corruption in Ukraine and how it could affect Danish investments. Troels Lund Poulsen acknowledged the risk but stressed the importance of continuing support while ensuring strict monitoring of how the money is utilized. This new investment marks an important development in Denmark’s support for Ukraine, where they are not only providing financial aid but also contributing to the establishment of an independent Ukrainian defense industry.