Ukraine has deployed 228 specialists to five Middle Eastern countries to help intercept drones and strengthen air defense systems, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. The teams have been sent to the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan, where they are advising on countering waves of Iranian Shahed drones amid ongoing regional tensions.

Zelensky said Ukrainian experts bring unmatched experience after defending against tens of thousands of similar drones since Russia's invasion in 2022. While local forces are handling ballistic missile threats, Ukrainian teams are focused on drone interception and are using technology developed during the war. Kyiv expects to finalize significant security agreements with the participating countries.

Ukraine is seeking financial support and technology partnerships in return for its assistance. Zelensky confirmed upcoming talks with the United States on a potential large-scale drone cooperation deal that could include investment in Ukraine's defense sector and broader postwar security and economic arrangements. Ukraine is already co-producing drones with several European partners and aims to expand such collaborations.