Ukraine confirms downing Iranian drones in Middle East operations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Ukrainian forces have actively intercepted Iranian-designed Shahed drones in several Middle Eastern countries, marking a significant expansion of Kyiv’s operational role beyond its own territory.
Speaking to journalists during a briefing reported by Associated Press and Euronews, Zelensky said Ukrainian personnel had destroyed Iranian drones in multiple countries. He described the operations as part of efforts to build effective, modern air defense systems rather than training missions.
Ukraine deployed 228 specialists to the region starting in early March. The teams were equipped with domestically produced interceptor drones and electronic warfare systems. They were sent to countries including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Jordan, drawing on experience gained in countering repeated Shahed drone attacks launched by Russia since late 2022.
Zelensky said Ukrainian experts worked alongside local forces to strengthen air defense capabilities and, in some cases, directly participated in interception efforts. According to BBC, some specialists also assisted US forces tasked with protecting military assets in Jordan.
In return for its military support, Ukraine secured a series of long-term agreements with Gulf states. Zelensky said Kyiv signed 10-year security deals with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, with further negotiations underway with Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
The arrangements include both military and economic components. Zelensky said Ukraine would receive interceptor systems to protect its energy infrastructure, as well as financial agreements and supplies of crude oil to be refined in Europe, along with diesel fuel deliveries.
The announcement came days after a two-week ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran on April 7, mediated by Pakistan. Zelensky said Ukrainian military teams would remain in the region regardless of the truce, continuing to support the development of regional security capabilities.
The development signals a shift in Ukraine’s role, from a recipient of Western military aid to an exporter of combat-tested counter-drone expertise. Reuters described the move as positioning Kyiv as a strategic partner for Gulf countries facing growing aerial threats linked to Iran.
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