Ukraine Offers Drone Support to Middle East, Wants Funding and Tech in Return

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has said Ukraine expects financial compensation and access to advanced technology in return for assisting Middle Eastern countries in countering Iranian drone threats.

In recent statements, Zelenskiy revealed that Ukraine has already deployed military experts and specialists to several countries in the region, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and a U.S. base in Jordan, to help defend against Iranian “kamikaze” drones.

He emphasized that while Ukraine is willing to share its battlefield-tested expertise, such cooperation must be mutually beneficial. Kyiv is seeking both funding and technological support; particularly in air defence and drone systems, in exchange for its assistance.

Ukraine’s growing role in global drone warfare stems from its experience in countering Iranian-designed drones used extensively by Russia since the start of the war in 2022. Officials say this has positioned the country as a key partner for nations facing similar threats in the Middle East.

Zelenskiy also disclosed that Ukraine has received multiple requests from countries in the Gulf region, as well as from Western allies, seeking help to neutralize drone attacks.

However, he expressed frustration over stalled agreements with key partners, including a proposed large-scale drone cooperation deal with the United States, which has yet to materialize.

The Ukrainian leader further warned that escalating conflict in the Middle East could divert international attention and critical military resources away from Ukraine’s war with Russia, potentially weakening Kyiv’s position on the battlefield.

Analysts say Ukraine is increasingly leveraging its wartime innovations to secure strategic partnerships, funding, and technological advancement, as global demand rises for effective counter-drone systems amid expanding regional conflicts.