Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha announced that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government has confirmed it will provide necessary protection and care for Ukrainians currently in the country amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Sybiha shared this information following a phone conversation with UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He expressed gratitude for the assurance that the rights of Ukrainian citizens will be fully protected and that they will receive appropriate treatment in all aspects.
In light of recent attacks on the UAE attributed to Iran, Sybiha also expressed Ukraine’s solidarity with the UAE. He condemned these actions as unjustified and illegal acts of aggression, highlighting the broader threat posed by the Iranian regime to regional stability.
The two officials discussed ongoing efforts to maintain long-term peace and security in the Middle East. Currently, approximately 250,000 Ukrainians reside in the region, and the Ukrainian consular service is in constant contact with them. Embassies are coordinating with local authorities and European partners to ensure the safety of their citizens.
As of now, there have been no reports of injuries or fatalities among Ukrainians due to the deteriorating security situation. However, challenges remain for those attempting to leave countries with closed airspace. Ukrainian embassies are providing necessary consultations to citizens in these situations.
Sybiha noted that, in collaboration with European partners, some citizens have already been relocated overland to safer locations, including Egypt. He urged Ukrainians in the region to adhere to safety measures and stay informed through Ukrainian diplomatic missions and local authorities.
The current conflict escalated following a significant military campaign launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28, which resulted in the death of key Iranian leadership. In retaliation, Iran initiated extensive missile and drone attacks on American bases and allied territories in the region, including Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the UAE.
On March 2, Lebanon entered the conflict on Iran’s side, launching missile strikes in northern Israel, prompting Israeli Defense Forces to target Hezbollah positions across Lebanon.
The UAE has assured the safety of Ukrainian citizens amid rising tensions following military actions in the Middle East. Ukrainian officials are coordinating efforts to protect their nationals and maintain communication with them.