Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is offering Ukraine’s advanced counter-drone technology to Middle Eastern partners as he seeks additional missile defense support for his country’s war against Russia. During a meeting in Abu Dhabi with United Arab Emirates President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Zelenskyy discussed a potential agreement that would see Ukraine share its battlefield-tested drone interception and electronic warfare systems in exchange for ballistic missile support and financial assistance.

Zelenskyy said Ukraine’s integrated air defense innovations are already being shared with the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Jordan and Saudi Arabia, all of which face increasing drone threats from Iran. In return, Ukraine is seeking greater access to anti-ballistic missile systems, citing a significant shortage as Russian attacks continue.

He warned that Russia is strengthening Iran’s military capabilities by transferring drone technology and battlefield tactics developed during the war. Zelenskyy also expressed concern that growing United States military focus on the Middle East could slow weapons deliveries to Ukraine. As fighting intensifies, with hundreds of Russian drones launched overnight, he reiterated that Ukraine will not cede territory in the eastern Donbas region and urged continued international pressure on both Russia and Iran.