Poroshenko emphasizes need to increase Ukraine's defense, security spending

10:22, 22.03.2017 1 min read

Defense and security spending in Ukraine has exceeded 5% of the country's GDP at present, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said.

"An increase in defense and security spending is our response to Russia's military aggression. Today, it has exceeded 5% of GDP. The army is Ukraine's main ally, the stronghold and the foundation if its independence," Poroshenko said on Facebook following the comparative firing trials of Shkval and Stilet weapon stations for infantry fighting vehicles conducted by Ukroboronprom.

The president posted a video recorded at the trials on Facebook.

On March 21, Poroshenko said Ukraine's defense spending is likely to increase.