Ukraine has built an impressive military-industrial complex from scratch, but it is only 60% operational – von der Leyen

Ukraine's defense industry has demonstrated impressive efficiency, but is currently operating at only 60% of its capacity. This was stated by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during a speech in the European Parliament.

"The speed, cost-effectiveness and ingenuity of Ukraine's [ed. – defense] production are impressive (...) But we also know that this powerful defense industry is operating at only 60% of capacity," von der Leyen emphasized .

She noted that Ukraine has built a powerful defense industry from scratch in three years. But, according to her, this untapped potential opens up great opportunities for both Ukraine and the EU countries.

"This is our opportunity. Our member states can take their SAFE loans and buy directly from the Ukrainian defense industry. For our member states, this is first-class quality, speed and cheapness. For Ukraine, this is extremely important revenue. It is also an opportunity to strengthen its defense industry base," added von der Leyen.

She emphasized that European security is impossible without a strong and developed defense industry in Ukraine.

"Ukraine and the EU stand together now – and we will stand together in the future," von der Leyen said.

In addition, she emphasized that Russia is rapidly rearming, so Europe must act quickly: simplify the rules of state aid and permits for defense companies, invest more in European (including Ukrainian) companies and avoid capital flight outside the EU.

• In May, the European Commission signed the first contracts for investments in Ukraine's military-industrial complex. EU to allocate 900 million euros for weapons for Ukrainian Armed Forces thanks to proceeds from frozen Russian assets.