Zelensky seeks drone deal with Japan

President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukraine is interested in developing defense-tech cooperation with Japan, particularly in signing the Drone Deal.

He made these remarks in an interview with NHK, CE Report quotes Ukrinform.

“Of course, we are very eager to establish military-technical cooperation between Ukraine and Japan—both at the government level (G2G) and at the business level (B2B)—since more than 70% of Ukraine’s defense industry is now in the private sector. I believe we will be able to increase the volume of bilateral trade, especially if we focus on the defense-industrial base,” Zelensky noted.

In his view, despite differences between the Ukrainian and Japanese legal systems, “when it comes to defense, there are no neutral countries.” “Sometimes you don’t even have a large army, but you need a strong defense sector, because we’re talking about drones for monitoring the maritime situation, reconnaissance, and mine clearance—and, of course, air defense and cybersecurity, as well as food security,” the President said.

In this context, he noted that Ukraine and Japan can be of mutual benefit to one another.

“We wanted to conclude a Drone Deal with Japan. Perhaps you will need some kind of defense equipment. That, of course, is up to Japan to decide. And again—we are grateful for all the support,” the head of state emphasized.

As reported, in February, the Japanese government announced the allocation of 6.2 billion yen (approximately $41 million) for Ukraine’s priority reconstruction needs, including the strengthening of municipal infrastructure, healthcare, the development of the agricultural sector, and support for public broadcasting.

In total, Japan is expected to provide $6 billion in aid to Ukraine this year.

Since the start of the full-scale invasion, Japan has provided Ukraine with over $15 billion in support across various sectors.

Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine