Costa Rica interested in Ukrainian defense systems for anti-drug efforts

Costa Rican President Laura Fernández has expressed solidarity with Ukraine and shown interest in its defense systems, particularly drones, for use in combating drug trafficking.

During a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Fernández conveyed Costa Rica's support amidst the ongoing war with Russia. She highlighted Ukraine's extensive experience in defense, especially with drones and technology, as highly relevant to Costa Rica's efforts to update its defense systems against drug trafficking and transnational organized crime.

"We have many topics of common interest, for example, Ukraine's enormous experience in defense using drones and technology. This is a relevant topic for Costa Rica because we are updating our defense systems against drug trafficking and transnational organized crime," Fernández stated in a video of the call released by the Costa Rican government.

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We have many topics of common interest, for example, Ukraine's enormous experience in defense using drones and technology. This is a relevant topic for Costa Rica because we are updating our defense systems against drug trafficking and transnational organized crime.

Costa Rica, a nation that abolished its army in 1948 and is known for its peace and democracy, has increasingly grappled with drug trafficking and associated violence. Its strategic geographic location makes it a key transit point for drugs in the Americas.

Zelenskyy invited Fernández to visit Ukraine and thanked Costa Rica for its support in various UN forums regarding the war with Russia. He expressed Ukraine's willingness to share expertise in areas such as agricultural development and security. Fernández affirmed Costa Rica's continued denunciation of violations of international humanitarian law and Ukraine's sovereignty by Russia, reiterating the country's commitment to peace and democracy.

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We are with you.