With the U.S. focused on a war with Iran and shifting support for Ukraine down the priority list, Kyiv is taking its own steps to shore up security by deepening defense ties with Middle Eastern states.
On March 29 (local time), the Kyiv Independent and other outlets reported that Ukraine has signed agreements to strengthen defense cooperation with Qatar and Saudi Arabia for the next 10 years.
At a press conference in Qatar the day before, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine’s drone capabilities are more than just production.
He added, “If you want a high-level relationship with Ukraine, you'll need our experts.” He went on to say, “Our experts are our soldiers.”
The Ukrainian government also said it recently dispatched about 200 drone technicians to countries in the Middle East, sharing the counter-drone tactics it developed while fighting Russia with states confronting Iranian drones.
Reports that the U.S. is considering diverting missiles originally intended for Ukraine to the conflict with Iran have heightened Kyiv’s sense of urgency. Russia has relied heavily on drone and missile strikes in recent months, and with a spring offensive looming, analysts warn the front could see intensified fighting.
Ukraine has long leaned on U.S. mediation in talks with Russia, but officials are increasingly seeking to diversify that diplomatic approach to include countries like China.
Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha told Reuters that China invited Ukrainian officials and “has the potential to influence Russia.”
