Zelensky: Time to start exporting Ukrainian weapons

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine will begin controlled arms exports. By the end of the year, export-import platforms are expected to be established in Europe, the United States, and the Middle East, he said on Monday at the International Defense Industries Forum in Kyiv.

"It's time to start exporting our Ukrainian weapons—the types we have in surplus and can therefore safely export," Zelenskyy said.

Revenue from these exports will be used to fund the production of weapons that are currently in short supply.

The President said he had instructed the Cabinet of Ministers, the Presidential Office, and the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council to develop the key components of the export system.

The program has been given the working title "Zbroya" (Weapons).

Zelenskyy also stated that Ukraine is setting up joint defense production facilities with key partners, both domestically and abroad. "This is, in fact, how we integrate Ukraine into the Western world," the president added.

He expressed hope that the launch of exports and new joint ventures with investment would enable a significant expansion of Ukraine's defense industry.

"Ukrainians are not a warlike people, but we know how to defend our homeland. Our weapons and defense efforts are truly a shared cause," Zelenskyy said.

• In August, Defense Minister Shmyhal stated that Ukraine would not permit direct arms exports, but alternative export opportunities would be made available for producers.