Ukrainian military experts have been sent to Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia to assist in defending against Iranian drones, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This move comes in response to the escalating drone threat in the region, following major US and Israeli air strikes.

Ukraine’s Drone Defense Expertise

During a video address, Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine has developed the “greatest experience in the world in countering attack drones.” This expertise has been honed through the four-year conflict with Russia, where drones have been a significant weapon in the war.

According to Zelensky, the United States and ten other countries across the Middle East and Europe have requested assistance in countering the drone threat, which has caused significant damage in recent months.

“Ukraine has the greatest experience in the world in countering attack drones,” Zelensky said. “Without our experience, it will be very difficult for the Gulf region, the entire Middle East, and partners in Europe and America to build strong protection.”

Ukraine has been using cost-effective, mass-produced interceptor drones to defend its skies, rather than relying on expensive missile systems. The country is now offering both its weapons and its expertise to Gulf nations, which have struggled to defend against Iranian drones using high-cost missiles.

Political and Strategic Implications

Zelensky has made it clear that Ukraine expects something in return for its assistance, emphasizing the need for continued Western support. “Those now seeking Ukraine’s help must continue to assist our own defence – first and foremost, our air defence,” he said.

Zelensky is pushing for Western allies to provide Ukraine with more Patriot and other air-defense systems, which are critical for defending against Russian attacks. This request comes at a time when US aid has been reduced under the administration of President Donald Trump, who has criticized previous aid efforts as wasteful.

“We are ready to help those who help us, help Ukraine,” Zelensky stated, highlighting the mutual support he sees in the current geopolitical landscape.

Ukraine also hopes to use the sale of interceptor drones to bolster its finances and strengthen ties with Gulf nations, which have historically been neutral in the Russia-Ukraine war.

Challenges and Concerns

Despite the growing demand for Ukraine’s expertise, some Ukrainian officials are cautious about overextending their resources and potentially straining relations with Western allies. Concerns have been raised about the political risks of diverting drones and expertise from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Zelensky has acknowledged that Ukraine has had to be strategic in its negotiations with Western allies, stating, “We held them like a good player. You can have good cards, but it’s important not to show everyone that you have them.”

This remark references Trump’s previous criticism that Ukraine had no use in negotiations with Russia and Washington. Trump’s efforts to mediate a peace deal have been seen as favoring Russia, particularly in the disputed Donbas region, where Russia controls more than 80% of the territory.

Zelensky’s recent outreach to the Middle East and the United States highlights a shift in the geopolitical landscape, where Ukraine is now seen as a key player in global security discussions.

The deployment of Ukrainian experts to the Middle East highlights the country’s growing influence, as well as the urgent need for continued Western support in the face of ongoing Russian aggression.