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US seeks Ukrainian help to counter Iranian drones in Gulf
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that the United States has requested Kyiv's assistance in defending Gulf nations against Iranian-made drones. The move comes as Ukraine faces its own security challenges but seeks diplomatic and military leverage.
Zelensky outlines conditions for cooperation
Zelensky stated that Ukraine would provide expertise and equipment only if its own defense capabilities remain uncompromised and if the arrangement yields diplomatic benefits. He suggested a potential exchange: Ukrainian interceptor drones for additional US Patriot air defense systems to bolster protection against Russian missile strikes.
Speaking on social media, Zelensky emphasized the difficulty of intercepting Iranian Shahed drones without specialized knowledge. "Anyone who has faced Iranian strikes knows the challenge-these drones are hard to counter without the right expertise and weapons," he said.
Gulf nations engage in high-level talks with Kyiv
Delegations from Gulf states, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait, have visited Kyiv for discussions. Zelensky described the talks as focused on "concrete steps" to protect military bases and civilian infrastructure from Iranian attacks.
A source familiar with the negotiations told reporters that some Gulf officials were asked to remain in Kyiv until agreements were finalized. Meanwhile, the UK is reportedly exploring ways to assist Qatar in strengthening its defenses.
Ukraine's strategic calculations amid global tensions
The Middle East conflict has raised concerns in Ukraine about potential distractions among its allies and a possible shortage of interceptor missiles. Rising oil prices, which benefit Russia's war funding, add to these worries. However, Zelensky appears to view the crisis as an opportunity to advance Ukraine's interests.
Ukraine's experience with Russian Shahed drones-based on Iranian designs-positions it as a valuable partner for Gulf nations. Kyiv may also hope to strengthen ties with Arab states that have historically maintained neutral stances on the Ukraine war.
Patriot missile shortage complicates negotiations
Zelensky disclosed that Ukraine has expended approximately 800 Patriot PAC-3 missiles in recent days-more than it has received throughout the entire war. He proposed a swap: Ukraine would provide drone interceptors in exchange for surplus Patriot missiles from other nations.
"We aim to work discreetly with partners to secure deficit Patriot missiles while transferring an equivalent number of interceptors," Zelensky said.
Challenges in scaling up support
Ihor Fedirko, head of Ukraine's Defense Industry Council, told the BBC that Ukraine could ramp up interceptor-drone production to 10,000 units per month. However, any foreign deliveries would require approval from Ukraine's highest political leadership.
"The weapons are just plastic and metal without proper training. We can send them, but who will teach you how to use them?"
Ihor Fedirko, Ukrainian Council of Defence Industry
Fedirko warned that Ukraine's training centers are already at full capacity, serving both military personnel and civilians. Providing expertise to Gulf allies would demand significant additional resources.
US response and broader implications
US President Donald Trump responded to Ukraine's offer by stating, "I'll take any assistance from any country." The request marks a shift in dynamics, as Ukraine has long sought support from Washington amid Russia's invasion.
Analysts note the irony of the US turning to Ukraine for help, given Trump's inconsistent military aid policies. While direct US support has stalled, intelligence-sharing continues to aid Ukraine's defense efforts.
