Several countries, including the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait, have approached Ukraine for assistance, Zelensky said on Wednesday. He stressed that any support will be provided only if it does not weaken Ukraine’s own defences and strengthens Kyiv’s diplomatic leverage against Russia.
Equipment and expertise provided
Ukraine has already received a US request for support, and Zelensky has authorised the provision of equipment along with Ukrainian experts to help defend against the drones. He noted that Ukraine is assisting partners who contribute to Ukraine’s security and the protection of civilian lives.
Low-cost drone defence
Ukraine has developed affordable anti-drone systems, costing as little as $1,000, to intercept Shahed drones deployed by Russia. These systems include low-cost interceptor drones designed to hunt and destroy Shaheds. Ukrainian manufacturers are producing at scale, allowing excess capacity to be shared with allies.
The technology has drawn international attention. Last September, Poland deployed multimillion-dollar military assets, including F-35s, F-16s, and Black Hawk helicopters, to counter violations by inexpensive drones. Zelensky has announced plans to begin exporting Ukraine’s battle-tested drone defence systems.
Strategic implications
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas noted that discussions between EU and Gulf states would explore how Ukraine’s experience can help counter Iranian drones. Zelensky also highlighted that the ongoing crisis in Iran has delayed US-brokered Russia-Ukraine talks, with trilateral meetings on hold until regional security conditions improve.
Oleksandr Merezhko, chair of Ukraine’s parliamentary foreign affairs committee, said Russia and Iran act in concert, linking the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. He urged the US to view both wars as interconnected, with Iran supplying weapons and Russia supporting Iran’s defence industry.
Ukrainian counterattacks
Ukraine has recently pushed back Russian forces along parts of the 1,250 km frontline. Localised counterattacks in February liberated an estimated 257 sq km (100 sq miles) of territory, exceeding losses in the same period, according to the Institute for the Study of War.
Featured photo: The Independent
Also read: Iran war escalation as US B-2 bombers join strikes
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