President Zelenskyj, Prime Minister, ladies and gentlemen,

It is a pleasure for the Crown Prince and me to welcome you, our Ukrainian friends, to Denmark, to Copenhagen and to Kastellet – one of Northern Europe’s most preserved fortresses.

Kastellet was built in the 1660s and formed part of Copenhagen’s defences for nearly 150 years.

Today, technology can reshape warfare in a matter of years – or even months. We must now adapt much faster to meet the threats we face.

President Zelenskyj, for almost five years, Russia’s full-scale war has raged in Ukraine. Its human cost is profound. Your people and your armed forces continue to defend your sovereignty under the most difficult conditions. I wish to express my deepest sympathy to you and the people of Ukraine.

The war in Ukraine has shown how quickly the demands of defence can change. The rapid evolution of drones and counter-drone systems is one example: new capabilities prompt new countermeasures, which in turn require further adaptation.
Those who use, design and build these systems must work closely together.

That is why this gathering matters. The Danish companies represented here contribute across intelligence, technology and hardware. Their work is essential to our ability to defend ourselves. Thank you for being here and for your engagement with Ukraine.

President Zelenskyj, Ukraine’s operational knowledge has been hard-won and comes at a terrible price. At the same time, the lessons Ukraine is sharing are helping to strengthen Europe’s security. We are impressed by your perseverance and grateful for your expertise and partnership.

Kastellet was built for the dangers of its time. We must be ready for the dangers of ours. By working together, we can help bring about a just and lasting peace in Ukraine – and a safer future for Denmark, Ukraine and Europe.
Thank you.

And now, Mr. President, the floor is yours.  

(Det talte ord gælder)