Zelenskyy Sets Goal to Make 50% of Arms in Ukraine

The announcement follows a significant political reshuffle in Kyiv. Zelenskyy has nominated Yulia Svyrydenko as the new prime minister, replacing Denys Shmyhal, who has been proposed as the next defence minister. Svyrydenko is known for her work in securing a minerals agreement with the United States. These appointments still require approval by parliament.

Boosting Domestic Arms Production
Zelenskyy, along with Shmyhal and outgoing defence minister Rustem Umerov, agreed in a recent meeting that the defence ministry should take a stronger role in weapons manufacturing. Zelenskyy emphasised that currently about 40% of the weapons used on the frontlines are made in Ukraine — a record high in the country's post-independence history.

Despite this progress, he stressed the urgent need for more domestically manufactured arms. "Our goal is to reach 50% Ukrainian-made weaponry within the first six months of the new government by expanding our domestic production. I am confident this is achievable, though not easy," Zelenskyy said in his video address.

Focus on Drones and Air Defences
The president also highlighted the country's focus on drone production and advanced air defence systems. With Russian drone and missile attacks intensifying, Ukraine is increasingly investing in drone interceptor technology to protect its cities.

Last week, military officials in Kyiv announced a $6.2 million budget for a new drone interceptor program designed to safeguard the capital from aerial attacks. Zelenskyy has underlined the importance of interceptors as an efficient and cost-effective response to the growing threat of drone warfare.