Zelenskyy: Ukrainian experts to work in Middle East on Shahed drone threat

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that Ukrainian experts will assist Middle Eastern countries in countering Iranian Shahed drone attacks, stressing that such support must not weaken Ukraine’s own defence capabilities.

Zelenskyy added he recently held discussions on the situation in the Middle East and the Gulf region, focusing on shared security challenges and ways to protect civilian lives. He said Ukraine is ready to help partners defend against drone threats.

The President noted he has already spoken with the leaders of the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Jordan and Bahrain and plans to continue talks with Kuwait and other regional states. He said all these countries face a common challenge from Iranian-made Shahed attack drones, noting that Tehran has already deployed more than 1,400 such drones.

Zelenskyy added he has instructed Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, alongside intelligence officials, the defence minister, military commanders and the secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, to prepare assistance options for partner countries in a way that does not affect Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russia.

“Our military has the necessary capabilities. Ukrainian experts will work on the ground, and teams are already negotiating this issue. We are ready to help protect lives, safeguard civilians and support real efforts to stabilise the situation and restore safe navigation in the region,” Zelenskyy said.

He added that Ukraine expects active involvement from Europe and the G7 in efforts to eliminate the Iranian regime’s terrorist capabilities and protect lives in the region.