KIEV
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday that he discussed defense cooperation and joint weapons production with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo during a meeting in Vilnius.
“Our key topic was investment in Ukrainian weapons production and co-production,” Zelenskyy said on X, adding that Finland was briefed on Ukraine’s domestic “Drone Line” initiative, which he claimed had already proven effective.
The two leaders also discussed Finland’s role in the Shelter Coalition, support for Ukraine’s EU membership, and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Zelenskyy stressed the importance of progress at the Istanbul peace talks, outlining expectations for “a ceasefire, the exchange of prisoners, the return of children, and a meeting at the level of leaders.”
“I thank Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and the people of Finland for all the support provided. We value your contribution,” he said.
The remarks came as Ukrainian and Russian delegations held a new round of negotiations in Istanbul, hosted by Türkiye.
