President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and President of Finland Alexander Stubb discussed the joint production of drones.

This took place during a meeting in New York in the United States on September 24, the press service of the President of Ukraine reported.

The presidents discussed the situation on the battlefield, Ukraine’s defense needs, and defense cooperation.

Zelensky discussed the need to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense, particularly in the supply of man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS).

At the meeting, the two leaders discussed Ukrainian-Finnish defense cooperation.

The joint production of drones and the exchange of experience in this area were also discussed separately.

“The leaders also discussed what international efforts are needed to achieve a lasting and just peace for Ukraine and the role of the Global South in this process,” the Office of the President of Ukraine said.

In addition, Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine must obtain permission from its partners and the means to strike deep into Russian territory.

Previously, the Ministry of Defense of Finland announced the transfer of the 25th military aid package to Ukraine, worth almost €118 million.

“The military situation in Ukraine remains serious. As promised, Finland will continue to provide material assistance. Our message to our partner countries is that we must not give up,” Defense Minister Antti Häkkinen stated.

The statement also notes that “for operational reasons and to ensure the safe arrival of the delivery at its destination, no further information will be provided on the contents of the aid, the method of delivery or the schedule.”

Finland participates in the armored coalition to help Ukraine, which is led by Poland, Germany, and Italy, and in the information technology coalition, which is led by Estonia and Luxembourg. Finland has also joined the Czech initiative to purchase ammunition for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.