Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that he is awaiting a report from Rustem Umerov, the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, regarding security agreements with countries in the Middle East. This announcement was made during his evening address on April 11.
Zelensky stated that Umerov is expected to provide insights on the outcomes of negotiations with nations in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf concerning the export of Ukraine’s “security capabilities.” He emphasized that partner countries view Ukraine’s efforts as a success, recognizing its role in enhancing regional security.
According to Zelensky, there is growing interest from Asia in these security initiatives, with preliminary agreements already in progress. Umerov is currently in Ukraine finalizing drafts of these agreements, which Zelensky believes will strengthen Ukraine’s position.
The President also mentioned that Ukraine remains in close communication with American officials and is preparing for “very active work” with European partners in the coming weeks. This follows Zelensky’s earlier remarks about Ukrainian experts successfully intercepting Iranian Shahed drones in several Middle Eastern countries.
In early March, Zelensky indicated that Ukraine would assist Middle Eastern nations in defending against Iranian attacks, with Ukrainian specialists deployed to the region. By March 17, he reported that 201 Ukrainian experts focused on countering Iranian Shahed drones were already active in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf.
Related Reading: Ukraine’s Position in the Middle East: Can Drones Shift the Balance?
President Zelensky has outlined Ukraine's ongoing security initiatives in the Middle East, highlighting negotiations and deployments aimed at enhancing regional defense against Iranian threats. The efforts reflect a strategic shift in Ukraine's foreign relations and security partnerships.