Kyiv, March 16 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that Ukraine could assist countries in the Middle East in countering drones supplied by Iran, but stressed that such cooperation would require financial support and advanced technology.
Speaking about the growing use of Iranian-made drones in regional conflicts, Zelenskyy said Ukraine has gained extensive experience in dealing with such threats during its ongoing war with Russia.
He suggested that the knowledge developed by Ukrainian forces in detecting and intercepting drones could be useful to countries facing similar security challenges in the Middle East.
Lessons from the war in Ukraine
Since the start of the conflict with Russia, Ukraine has faced repeated drone attacks, including the use of Iranian-designed Shahed drones. Ukrainian forces have developed air defence tactics and technological solutions to counter these aerial threats.
Zelenskyy said Ukraine’s experience in dealing with these systems could be shared with partners seeking to protect their infrastructure and population from drone strikes.
However, he emphasized that such cooperation would require investment and technological cooperation to expand Ukraine’s defence capabilities.
Call for financial and technological support
According to the Ukrainian leader, Kyiv would need financial assistance and access to new technologies to strengthen its ability to counter drone threats effectively.
He noted that the resources required for advanced air defence systems, electronic warfare tools and drone detection technologies remain significant.
Analysts say Ukraine’s request reflects the broader challenge of sustaining its defence systems while continuing to confront Russian military pressure.
Growing concern over drone warfare
The increasing use of drones in modern conflicts has raised security concerns across multiple regions. Low-cost unmanned aerial systems are being deployed for surveillance and attacks, often targeting critical infrastructure.
Experts say the war in Ukraine has become a testing ground for new drone defence techniques, many of which are now being studied by other countries.
Zelenskyy’s remarks highlight how the conflict has reshaped military strategies and defence cooperation globally.
Broader geopolitical context
The Ukrainian president’s comments come at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, where concerns about drone warfare and regional security continue to grow.
Observers say Ukraine’s offer to share its experience could open the door for closer security cooperation with countries facing similar threats.
At the same time, Kyiv continues to seek international support as the conflict with Russia enters another prolonged phase.
