Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will assist Middle Eastern countries in defending against drone attacks from Iran. He emphasized that this support will not compromise Ukraine’s own defense capabilities.
During a recent meeting focused on the situation in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf, Zelensky discussed the challenges faced by Ukraine and its partners, as well as potential strategies to protect lives in the region.
Zelensky noted his previous conversations with leaders from the UAE, Qatar, Jordan, and Bahrain, stating that discussions will also take place with Kuwait’s leadership and other regional nations. All these countries are facing a common threat from Iranian Shahed drones, with Tehran reportedly deploying over 1,400 strike drones.
The president tasked Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, along with intelligence agencies, Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov, military command, and National Security Secretary Rustem Umerov, to prepare support options for these nations. He stressed that this assistance must not hinder Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russia.
“Our military has the necessary capabilities. Ukrainian experts will be deployed on-site, and teams are already being coordinated. We are ready to help protect lives, safeguard civilians, and support genuine efforts to stabilize the situation, including ensuring safe navigation in the region,” Zelensky stated.
He also expressed hope for increased involvement from European nations and the G7 in dismantling the Iranian regime’s terrorist capabilities and enhancing security in the region.
President Zelensky has outlined Ukraine's commitment to aiding Middle Eastern countries in countering Iranian drone threats while ensuring that Ukraine's own defense remains intact. The initiative reflects Ukraine's broader strategy to engage with international partners against shared security challenges.