Ukraine’s four-year resistance has driven defence innovation and Canada may take note

Justin Ling writes that over four years Ukraine has developed domestic defence manufacturing and new technologies while resisting Russia’s invasion, producing millions of drones and expecting exports; the piece notes Canada has provided billions in aid and that the columnist believes Ottawa can learn from Ukraine’s rapid innovation.

Four years after Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022, the columnist highlights how Ukraine combined front-line resistance with rapid domestic innovation. The article profiles Mykhailo Fedorov, then minister of innovation, who remained in office and accelerated projects begun before the war. It reports that Ukrainian researchers and startups scaled production of drones, munitions and other systems while adapting to wartime demands. The piece also notes changes in international support and recent promotions within Ukraine’s government. Key facts: - The article reports Mykhailo Fedorov stayed in government after Feb. 24, 2022, and was later promoted to minister of defence. - Ukraine is described as producing about four million drones per year, with production expected to rise by nearly 80% in 2026. - The Kiel Institute is cited as reporting a 99% decline in U.S. aid to Ukraine in 2025, and overall funding down roughly $20 billion. - Polling from the Kyiv Security Forum is reported as showing more than 80% support for joining the European Union, more than 70% support for joining NATO, and about 7% support for accepting Russia’s surrender terms. - The article notes Canada has provided billions in aid to Ukraine, and that some European countries are expected to procure Ukrainian-made drones this year. Summary: The columnist presents Ukraine’s wartime innovation and scaled manufacturing as a central development of the past four years, and reports that these capabilities are beginning to attract interest and purchases from European partners. The article links declining external aid with a push for domestic solutions and notes Canada’s financial support; what Ottawa’s next policy responses will be is undetermined at this time.