Swedish Civil Defence Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin has announced the transfer of aid to Ukraine totalling around EUR 9 million – two Swedish Coast Guard vessels to ensure maritime security, as well as respirator masks.

At a joint briefing with Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko in Kyiv on Tuesday, the Swedish Civil Defense Minister noted that his visit to Ukraine is evidence of Sweden's readiness to continue to support Ukraine.

"Today we [with the head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine] signed a statement of intent, which is aimed at strengthening cooperation at the level of structures that are subordinate to our ministries," he said.

He also announced the provision of two civilian aid packages for Ukraine, which will be aimed at meeting needs in two very important sectors.

"We are talking about maritime security. The Swedish Coast Guard will be delivering two such vessels along with equipment to enhance maritime security," he said.

The second part of the aid package, according to him, is about 40,000 protective respirator masks.

"We are talking about the transfer of aid worth approximately EUR 9 million," Bohlin concluded.

"Today we have held talks with Minister of Civil Defense of the Kingdom of Sweden, Carl-Oskar Bohlin ... There is a practical result of the meeting - the signing of a joint statement of intent between our departments," the head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs said in turn.

Klymenko noted that this document is a confirmation of the aspirations to develop a productive partnership and integrate efforts to overcome security threats.

In general, according to him, Sweden has been providing assistance to Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale aggression. Also, as Klymenko emphasized, Sweden's political support is important on Ukraine's path to EU and NATO membership.