Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed that his country could assist Middle Eastern nations in countering Iranian drones, known as “Shaheds,” contingent upon a ceasefire agreement facilitated by regional leaders with Russia.
During a recent statement, Zelensky suggested that leaders from the Middle East, who maintain strong ties with Russia, could request a temporary ceasefire from Moscow. He indicated that following such an agreement, Ukraine would deploy its top drone interception experts to assist these nations.
The Ukrainian president noted that the ceasefire could last for various durations, such as two weeks or two months, to enable Ukraine to help protect civilian populations in the region.
Zelensky emphasized the strong economic relationships that the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which could facilitate this diplomatic effort.
He further assured that Ukraine could extend similar assistance to Israel in its efforts to counteract drone threats.
Earlier, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer had also mentioned that the UK would engage Ukrainian experts to aid Gulf nations in intercepting Iranian drones. However, Zelensky clarified that he had not yet received any formal requests for Ukrainian assistance in this matter.
It is important to note that Iran has been actively deploying its drones for strikes against countries in the Persian Gulf, particularly following the initiation of operations by the United States and Israel against the Iranian regime.
President Zelensky of Ukraine has proposed assistance to Middle Eastern nations in countering Iranian drone threats, contingent on a ceasefire with Russia. This initiative highlights Ukraine's strategic role in regional security amid ongoing tensions involving Iran.