This week, Ukraine has faced a significant escalation in military aggression from Russia, with over 3,000 drone strikes, primarily using Shahed drones, alongside more than 1,450 guided aerial bombs and 40 various types of missiles.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made this announcement via Telegram on March 29, indicating that Russia continues to intensify its military operations against Ukraine.
“The Russians are not reducing their pace of war against our state and people, while also openly investing in prolonging another conflict that leads to global destabilization,” Zelenskyy stated.
He emphasized that the types of drones being used against Ukraine are similar to those employed in the Middle East and the Gulf region. Zelenskyy remarked that ballistic missiles are being deployed against Ukraine with the same level of cynicism as they are against other partners, adding that the blockade of maritime routes and the destabilization of global markets have had repercussions for every country.
“We are contributing to ensuring security. It is crucial for the world not to lose time and opportunities. Clear, decisive, and coordinated efforts are needed to provide real protection for lives and to stop wars. We must build joint and modern defense systems that have been tested in war. Developing joint production of modern and effective weapons is essential. We must unify capabilities so that people can live in peace in Europe, the Middle East, and other parts of the world,” he added.
On March 28, President Zelenskyy visited Qatar, where he met with Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The discussions focused on enhancing the protection of citizens’ lives and establishing a mutually beneficial partnership in the defense sector for at least the next decade. Following their meeting, the chiefs of staff from both nations signed an agreement outlining joint projects in the defense industry, including co-production and technological partnerships between companies.
Zelenskyy previously noted that 228 Ukrainian specialists are currently in the Middle East, assisting local air defense forces in countering Iranian drone threats.
Additionally, he reported that Ukraine has received 11 requests for security support from neighboring countries of Iran, European nations, and the United States to counter Iranian Shahed drones and similar challenges.
Ukraine has reported a surge in Russian military activity, including thousands of drone strikes and missile attacks. President Zelenskyy emphasized the need for coordinated global security efforts and highlighted recent defense collaborations with Qatar.