Prague: Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov met his counterparts in the Czech Republic and Italy to discuss military assistance, defense industry cooperation, and battlefield needs, the Defense Ministry said on Saturday.

According to Anadolu Agency, in Prague, Umerov expressed gratitude to Czech Defense Minister Jana Cernochova for military support since the start of the war.

Umerov emphasized the significance of the 'Czech Initiative,' which has supplied Ukraine with hundreds of thousands of munitions, and discussed the potential for expanding its funding and efficiency. The talks also covered further assistance in training and equipping Ukrainian troops in line with NATO standards. "Czechia was among the first to help Ukraine after February 24, 2022. We will always remember this support," Umerov stated.

During his visit to Rome, Umerov engaged in discussions with Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto regarding Ukraine's priority military needs, which include air defense systems and ammunition supplies. The two sides explored ways to enhance industrial cooperation, with Ukraine expressing readiness to establish joint ventures and attract investment to strengthen its defense sector. Umerov also highlighted future opportunities in drone technology and maritime defense, thanking Italy for its leadership in supporting Ukraine.