Shmyhal calls Rheinmetall CEO after criticism of Ukraine’s bureaucracy

Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal held a telephone conversation with Armin Papperger, CEO of the German defense conglomerate Rheinmetall, after Papperger criticized the slow pace of construction of a munitions plant in Ukraine, the minister’s press service reported.
Earlier, during the presentation of Rheinmetall’s first-half financial results, Papperger voiced dissatisfaction with the progress on the Ukrainian facility. He noted that the company’s plant in Unterlüß, Germany — launched at almost the same time — is already ready for technical commissioning, while the Ukrainian site remains under construction.
"The level of bureaucracy in Ukraine is very high, and I am not happy about it," Papperger said.
In response, Shmyhal promptly reached out to his German counterpart. According to the minister, the two discussed key milestones and operational matters related to the plant’s construction.
"Rheinmetall is our long-standing and important partner. We have exemplary cooperation in three areas: armored vehicles, ammunition, and air defense systems," Shmyhal said in a statement.
Shmyhal stressed that the construction of the artillery shell plant is proceeding as planned.
"I have identified improved coordination mechanisms. We are working together clearly and efficiently," he added.
He also underscored the importance of attracting defense companies from around the world to set up production and R&D centers in Ukraine.
- Rheinmetall is one of Ukraine’s key partners in the defense sector, actively cooperating with Kyiv on programs to strengthen the country’s defense capabilities amid Russian aggression.
- Due to a surge in its share price, Rheinmetall will replace French luxury group Kering SA (owner of the Gucci brand) in the Euro Stoxx 50 index, which tracks the largest companies in the eurozone.
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