Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers has appointed Hanna Hvozdiar as Deputy Defense Minister, effective September 8. Her mandate focuses on scaling up weapons production and expanding exports as the country accelerates efforts to equip its front lines.
Hvozdiar, who previously led Ukraine’s largest military charity fund, the Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation, will now oversee the nation’s defense industry. This strategic appointment aims to enhance the ministry’s capabilities in developing Ukraine’s defense sector and ensuring timely supplies to the front lines.
“Our task is to establish a robust Ukrainian defense industry that meets current needs and secures a long-term advantage for Ukraine,” Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara stated in a press release. The ministry emphasized that ensuring frontline supply is a top priority for Hvozdiar, as Ukrainian soldiers require a consistent and sufficient supply of domestically produced weapons to effectively counter Russian threats.
In addition to addressing immediate needs, Hvozdiar will also focus on exporting surplus defense products, which could foster beneficial partnerships with Ukraine’s allies and attract additional funding for the defense sector.
The ministry plans to implement clear and predictable guidelines for producers, maintain direct communication with the defense industry, and create conducive conditions for increasing production capacity.
Hvozdiar previously served as Deputy Defense Minister from July 2025 to January 2026 and has experience in strategic industries, having launched Zbroya, Ukraine’s first online platform for weapons manufacturers. Her leadership at the Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation from 2021 to 2023 further underscores her commitment to Ukraine’s defense initiatives.
