Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has agreed to defence cooperation with the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Saudi Arabia during a Gulf tour focused on countering missile and drone threats.
According to reports, Ukraine and Qatar signed a defence agreement that includes cooperation in countering missiles and unmanned aerial systems, while discussions with the UAE also led to an agreement on broader defence and security cooperation.
Ukraine had earlier signed a similar defence cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia, paving the way for future technology partnerships and security collaboration, particularly in drone defence.
Officials said the agreements centre on Ukraine sharing its battlefield-tested expertise in countering drones and missile attacks, developed during its ongoing war with Russia.
Reports also indicate Ukraine is offering interceptor drones, electronic warfare capabilities and advisory support to Gulf countries facing increasing Iranian drone and missile attacks.
The agreements come amid escalating tensions in the Gulf, with several countries including the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia facing repeated aerial attacks, prompting them to seek Ukraine’s experience in drone defence and air protection systems. (Newswire)