On the night of 7 October Ukrainian drones struck an oil depot in occupied Feodosia, the largest oil transfer facility in Crimea. This attack, which caused a massive fire and forced the occupying authorities to declare a state of emergency, underscores that Ukraine is not only successfully holding its ground but also actively targeting critical infrastructure supporting the Russian military machine. Thus, Ukraine continues to demonstrate its ability to effectively utilise its military potential, weakening enemy forces and bolstering its defence capabilities.
The Ukrainian defence industry is being strengthened through cooperation with international partners and companies from various countries. For example, the German conglomerate Rheinmetall has established a joint venture with the state-owned company “Ukrainian Defense Industry.” This enterprise will focus on servicing, producing, and developing military equipment, significantly enhancing Ukraine’s defence capabilities. Additionally, Northrop Grumman from the U.S. has signed an agreement to produce medium-calibre ammunition to NATO standards in collaboration with Ukrainian enterprises.
Against the backdrop of support from the European Union, a Forum on cooperation between the defence industries of Ukraine and the EU took place in Brussels in May 2024. This event marked the first step towards implementing the European Defense Industry Strategy (EDIS), aimed at strengthening cooperation and integrating the Ukrainian defence industry into the European technological and industrial defence base. The EU supports joint procurement initiatives and the creation of joint ventures, which will accelerate and expand the supply of military products for Ukraine. Recently, the Netherlands delivered F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine and allocated €400 million for the joint development of modern drones.
Support from Western countries, including Belgium, remains critically important for Ukraine’s success. Belgium has made significant contributions by providing artillery shells and demining equipment to Ukraine. However, despite these efforts, Ukraine’s needs remain high. To achieve victory, additional military assistance is essential in th4e form of more weapons, air defence systems, modern tanks, and missile systems, along with reliable logistics and supply chains to maintain the combat readiness of Ukrainian forces.
On 12 October an historic meeting will take place in the “Ramstein” format, for the first time at the level of heads of state, led by U.S. President Joe Biden. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will present the Victory Plan, aimed at a just resolution of the war and the complete restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity. This plan deserves unconditional support, as there is no alternative path to a stable and just peace.
Unlike Ukraine’s Victory Plan, China’s “peace plan” is more focused on improving China’s international image and countering Western criticism. It fails to address key issues, such as holding the aggressor accountable and returning occupied territories, essentially serving as a tool for China’s diplomatic gain. Beijing seeks to avoid direct involvement in the conflict while continuing to support Russia to safeguard its strategic interests and minimize risks to its economy.
The upcoming Ramstein meeting presents an excellent opportunity to make strategically important decisions that will help strengthen Ukraine’s defence capabilities and move closer to a just peace. Only through the collective efforts of partners can Ukraine be effectively defended, aggression halted, ensuring stability and security in Europe. Support from allies including the U.S., UK, France, Germany, Italy, and others will be a decisive factor in achieving peace.
