In brief
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in Saudi Arabia to discuss using Ukraine's drone expertise to bolster security in the Gulf region. He emphasized the importance of partnerships to ensure energy security and has also sought air defense assistance amidst ongoing conflicts. Zelensky's visit highlights the need for collaboration in defense technology and regional stability.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Saudi Arabia on Thursday after emphasizing earlier that Ukrainian drones could help enhance security in the Gulf region.
Important meetings are scheduled. We appreciate the support of those who are ready to work with us to ensure security, and we support them too, he stated via social media.
In his statements, Zelensky highlighted Ukraine's expertise in drone technology as a critical asset for global security enhancement, particularly in the Gulf. He noted, This matters because energy security - and the cost of living, particularly in Europe - depends on their oil, gas and other resources, and stable global markets.
He asserted the importance of not only developing new weapons, especially drones, but also having practical experience in their operation and the integration of these technologies with existing defense systems.
In return for sharing this technological expertise, Zelensky expressed the need for assistance in strengthening Ukraine's defense against the ongoing Russian invasion. We would like Middle Eastern states to also give us an opportunity to strengthen ourselves. They have certain air defense missiles of which we don't have enough, he said in an interview with Le Monde.
Several Ukrainian drone companies have been approached by Gulf nations for collaboration; however, Kyiv's government has not yet authorized any agreements. Kvertus, a company specializing in anti-drone electronic warfare systems, confirmed interest from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
With geopolitical tensions rising, especially concerning Iran, it's believed the U.S. is considering reallocating arms originally meant for Ukraine to the Gulf region, making a drone partnership more crucial for Ukraine's defense strategy.
CEO Yaroslav Filimonov of Kvertus stated, We understand that we need to coordinate with our government because it's not only about business, about selling drones, it's about politics. Other Ukrainian manufacturers, like TAF Industries, have also received inquiries from several Gulf countries but await government approval for any exports, prioritizing Ukrainian security in all dealings.
