International Drone Coalition to allocate €1.8 billion to Ukraine this year

Defense Minister Rustem Umerov announced this, referring to partners from Latvia, which, along with the United Kingdom, will lead the initiative.

"This decision will help Ukraine strengthen its tech edge on the battlefield and destroy the enemy more effectively," Umerov said.

He reminded that the coalition’s steering group held its first meeting in Riga on October 31, with 17 countries attending: Australia, the UK, Denmark, Estonia, Italy, Canada, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Germany, New Zealand, Poland, France, the Czech Republic, Sweden, and Ukraine.

Latvia will contribute €20 million to the drone coalition this year, with at least €10 million allocated for domestic purchases and €5 million for joint buys within the coalition.

Additionally, Ukraine signed an agreement with Latvia to train Ukrainian soldiers in drone piloting.

"Drones are the weapons of the future. They’re already helping Ukraine defend itself and saving the lives of our defenders. I thank our partners for their support in Ukraine’s victory," said Umerov.

• The UK government recently announced £7.5 million (about €8.8 million) in military assistance for Ukraine. These funds will go toward purchasing strike and reconnaissance drones.