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Ukraine sends military teams to Gulf nations
Ukrainian specialists have arrived in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia to bolster defenses against Iranian drone strikes, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced in a video address on Wednesday.
Expertise gained from years of Russian attacks
Zelensky highlighted Ukraine's unmatched experience in countering attack drones, developed over four years of relentless Russian aerial assaults. "Without our knowledge, building robust protection in the Gulf, the broader Middle East, Europe, and America will be far more challenging," he stated.
Ukraine claims at least 11 countries-including the U.S.-have requested assistance in neutralizing drone threats that have caused significant damage in recent months.
High-level delegation travels to secure agreements
Rustem Umerov, Secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, is leading a team of military, intelligence, and defense officials to the Gulf to finalize "concrete agreements," Zelensky said. No statements have been issued by the host nations.
Ukraine employs cost-effective, mass-produced interceptor drones to neutralize threats, a strategy it now offers to Gulf states. These nations have struggled with expensive missile-based defenses against low-cost Iranian Shahed drones.
Political risks and demands for reciprocity
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine expects tangible support in return, particularly advanced air defense systems like Patriots. "Those seeking our help must continue aiding our defense-especially our air defenses," he said.
Domestic critics question diverting drones abroad when Ukraine faces shortages. Others warn against overstating Ukraine's capabilities after a U.S. rejection of a drone deal last year, confirmed by the presidential office.
Zelensky's strategic messaging
In an interview with Irish blogger Caolan Robertson, Zelensky expressed pride in Ukraine's newfound leverage. "The Americans asked for our help, and I'm proud we can assist," he said, adding that Ukraine had "held its cards well" without revealing them prematurely.
The remarks appeared to counter former U.S. President Donald Trump's claims that Ukraine lacked bargaining power in negotiations with Moscow and Washington. Trump, who has mediated peace talks seen as favoring Russia, has also slashed U.S. military aid to Ukraine since taking office.
Obstacles to peace talks
One major sticking point remains Russia's demand for Ukraine to cede control of Donbas, where Moscow currently holds over 80% of the territory. Kyiv has refused to concede any occupied regions.
Meanwhile, European allies have stepped in to supply Ukraine with U.S.-made Patriots, though deliveries have been slow and insufficient to meet demand.
