Denmark has signed a landmark agreement with Ukraine to allow Ukrainian defense companies to establish production facilities on Danish soil. Announced on July 4, the move is part of a broader effort to deepen cooperation between Danish and Ukrainian defense industries amid Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.
The agreement was signed by Denmark’s Minister for Industry (Erhvervsministeren) Morten Bødskov and Ukraine’s Minister for Strategic Industries Herman Smetanin. It allows Ukrainian defense firms to set up operations in Denmark, with support for production and export licenses. This aims to ensure that equipment produced in Denmark can be shipped to Ukraine, strengthening Kyiv’s ability to defend itself.
A historic milestone for Ukraine’s defense sector
During the signing, Smetanin described the agreement as a “historic moment and a unique case for Ukraine’s defense industry.” He noted that Denmark was the first country to finance weapons production by Ukrainian manufacturers a year ago and is now the first to import Ukrainian defense technology for manufacturing and scaling up.
“This means a lot to us. Denmark is a true friend of Ukraine’s defense industry and a trusted ally in our fight against the aggressor,” said Smetanin. “Ukraine will do everything to also strengthen Denmark’s and its partners’ defense capabilities. Together we are stronger.”
Oleksandr Kamyshin, strategic advisor to President Zelensky, added: “When our companies start production in the EU, it’s no longer about aid — it’s about trust. It’s sustainable cooperation based on shared interests and mutual benefit.”
Supporting Denmark’s defense industry
According to Bødskov, the agreement is also intended to give Denmark’s defense sector new momentum. “With today’s signing, we are taking another important step to bring Ukrainian defense companies to Denmark. This way, we can share expertise and boost the Danish defense industry, while also supporting Ukraine’s fight for freedom,” he said.
The agreement includes provisions to facilitate technology transfers from Ukraine, remove barriers to cooperation, and protect shared technologies from misuse. This partnership underlines Denmark’s continued support for Ukraine as it resists Russia’s invasion.
Toward a stronger European security framework
The cooperation reflects a wider European trend of integrating Ukraine into the continent’s defense and industrial systems. As Ukrainian production shifts inside EU borders, it points to long-term partnerships that go beyond short-term aid. Both countries see this as a model for future efforts to reinforce European security and resilience.
