Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has been appointed to the advisory board of Fire Point, a leading Ukrainian defense company known for its advanced long-range drones capable of targeting deep within Russian territory. This move comes as the company faces an ongoing corruption investigation. Fire Point is actively enhancing its global presence by establishing a new factory in Denmark and expanding its production capabilities to include battle-tested cruise missiles, aiming to more than double its current output. Despite the scrutiny, company executives maintain transparency, having commissioned an independent audit to address concerns. Critics, however, highlight the firm’s opaque origins, its monopoly on Defense Ministry contracts, and alleged ties to Tymur Mindich, a controversial associate of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy implicated in a major corruption scandal. Fire Point’s Chief Technology Officer, Iryna Terekh, expressed support for the investigation, emphasizing the company’s commitment to adhering to high corporate standards. The firm has also gained international recognition, with U.S. Special Envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg visiting its facilities. Fire Point’s success is partly attributed to the Danish model, a financing mechanism where foreign governments directly fund Ukrainian defense companies. However, the company’s rapid rise is shadowed by ongoing investigations into potential price inflation and questionable contracts. Despite these challenges, Fire Point continues to innovate, with its Flamingo cruise missile proving effective in recent strikes against Russian targets. The company’s crowdfunding initiatives, such as a campaign by the Czech organization Weapons to Ukraine, further underscore its growing influence. As Fire Point navigates both expansion and scrutiny, its role in Ukraine’s defense industry remains pivotal.
Mike Pompeo becomes adviser to scrutinized Ukraine defense company that’s looking to boost missiles
