Ukraine has agreed to deepen defense cooperation with the United Arab Emirates and Qatar during President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to the Gulf region, as tensions escalate amid the ongoing war involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. The agreements include long-term partnerships focused on security, missile defense, and countering unmanned aerial systems. Zelensky said similar ten-year agreements have been signed with Saudi Arabia and are expected with the United Arab Emirates in the coming days.

Under the new arrangements, Ukraine will share its air defense expertise and drone technology with Gulf nations. More than 200 Ukrainian military and security specialists have been sent to advise regional partners on intercepting drone attacks that have disrupted critical energy infrastructure. The cooperation also covers weapons co-production, strategic experience sharing, and strengthening energy security.

Zelensky is seeking broader financial and political backing as Ukraine’s war with Russia enters its fifth year and Western military assistance faces uncertainty. During the visit, Ukraine secured a one-year diesel supply agreement, vital for both its armed forces and agricultural sector, while continuing efforts to raise funds for domestic weapons production and budget needs.