Drone deal: Zelensky, Nausėda discuss expanding defense cooperation

23.04.2026 23:34

Ukrinform

During their meeting, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda discussed in detail opportunities for further cooperation in defense manufacturing, particularly through the Drone Deal initiative.

Zelensky announced this on Facebook, according to Ukrinform.

“Ukraine’s experience in building a system to protect lives must be scaled up across all of Europe, and we are ready for such a partnership,” he stated.

The presidents also addressed Ukraine’s expectations regarding the opening of negotiation chapters for accession to the European Union as soon as possible.

Zelensky noted that Lithuania will hold the EU Council presidency in the first half of next year. Ukraine, he said, expects Lithuania to provide appropriate support on all issues related to its full membership in the European Union.

The head of state expressed gratitude to Lithuania for its consistent assistance, support for the PURL program, and willingness to cooperate within the SAFE program. He emphasized, among other things, the importance of today’s EU decision to unblock a EUR 90 billion loan.

As reported by Ukrinform, Zelensky arrived in Cyprus on a visit to participate in a special meeting of EU leaders.

Photo: OP