Ukraine and the United Arab Emirates have agreed to boost cooperation in defence and security, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Saturday. The deal comes amid increasing Iranian drone attacks in the Gulf region.
Zelensky made an unannounced visit to the UAE, following a recent defence agreement with Saudi Arabia. Both Gulf countries have faced drone strikes reportedly launched by Iran in retaliation for US and Israeli military actions.
Ukraine’s Anti-Drone Expertise
Ukraine has significant experience in countering Russian drones. Kyiv has sent anti-drone specialists to the UAE and Saudi Arabia to assist with regional security.
During the UAE visit, Zelensky met with Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The two leaders agreed to strengthen defence and security collaboration. “Our teams will finalise the details,” Zelensky said.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring stability and protecting lives amid current threats. “Ukraine has relevant expertise in this area,” he added, highlighting the country’s advanced anti-drone systems. Kyiv claims its anti-drone defences are among the best globally.
Strategic Defence Collaboration
Ukraine has proposed exchanging its drone interceptors for more expensive air-defence missiles currently used by Gulf countries to counter Iranian drones. Kyiv says it needs more interceptors to defend against near-daily Russian missile attacks.
Zelensky stressed that protection should be adequate everywhere. “We are open to joint work that will strengthen our peoples and protect lives in our countries,” he said.
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This agreement signals deeper regional collaboration and shows how Ukraine’s defence expertise could play a crucial role in helping Gulf nations manage evolving drone threats. It also highligh
