Ukrainian defense chief Umerov, US envoy Kellogg discuss joint arms production in Kyiv

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov on Monday met Gen. Keith Kellogg, US special envoy to Ukraine, and the two discussed joint military-industrial projects, sanctions against Russia, and prospects for a long-term ceasefire.

“We had a substantive discussion focused on our shared goal – achieving a sustainable and just peace,” said Umerov, according to a statement, thanking the US for its continued support, which he said “saves lives and brings the end of the war closer.”

The minister said particular focus was placed on joint projects for localizing arms production in Ukraine and Europe, including air defense systems.

“Some of these projects are already underway, while others are being prepared for launch,” he said, adding that they could be implemented with the use of frozen Russian assets or support from European partners.

He described Ukraine’s battlefield experience, especially in drone warfare, as a strategic asset Kyiv is ready to share.

The meeting also covered economic pressure on Moscow. Umerov reiterated that “the Russian energy sector is a key source of funding for the war” and called for more systematic sanctions.

Commander-in-Chief General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Chief of the General Staff Maj. Gen. Andrii Hnatov, and military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov briefed Kellogg and his team on the operational situation and warned of Russia’s broader military ambitions beyond Ukraine.

First Deputy Defense Minister Serhii Boiev, meanwhile, stressed Ukraine’s readiness for a long-term ceasefire, emphasizing focus on bolstering its defense industry and military capacity.