Zelensky Visits Saudi Arabia, Offers Ukraine’s Drone Expertise in Security Talks

Rabat – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Saudi Arabia on Thursday after proposing that Ukraine’s advanced drone capabilities could help bolster security in the Gulf region.

“Important meetings are scheduled. We appreciate the support of those who are ready to work with us to ensure security, and we support them too,” Zelensky said in a social media message following his arrival.

Earlier in the day, Zelensky highlighted Ukraine’s expertise in drone warfare as a potential contribution to global security, particularly in energy-sensitive regions such as the Gulf.

“This matters because energy security and the cost of living, particularly in Europe, depend on their oil, gas, and other resources, and stable global markets,” he said in a video address to the Joint Expeditionary Force summit in Helsinki.

The key, the Ukrainian President says, “is not only producing new weapons, especially drones, not just technology, but also real experience in using them and integrating them with raiders, aviation, and other air defense systems. We have this experience.” 

In return, Zelensky signaled that Kyiv is seeking increased military support from Middle Eastern countries as it continues to defend itself against Russia’s invasion.

“We would like Middle Eastern states to also give us an opportunity to strengthen ourselves. They have certain air defense missiles, of which we don’t have enough. That’s what we’d like to reach a deal on,” he told French newspaper Le Monde.

Ukrainian drone manufacturers say interest from Gulf states is growing, although exports remain subject to government approval.

Yaroslav Filimonov, chief executive of Kvertus, a Ukrainian producer of anti-drone electronic warfare systems, said the company had received inquiries from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

“We are waiting for approval to export any products. We understand that we need to coordinate with our government because it’s not only about business, about selling drones, it’s about politics,” Filimonov told the BBC.

Volodymyr Zinovsky, CEO of Ukrainian manufacturer TAF Industries, said his company had also been approached by representatives from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait, but referred them to Kyiv.

“All of us are working to protect Ukraine, to stay with Ukraine, and to keep Ukraine alive. This is about survival. And if we need to wait a few months, we will,” Zinovsky said.

The push for potential drone agreements comes amid reports that the United States may redirect some weapons originally intended for Ukraine to the Middle East, as tensions linked to the war in Iran strain military resources.

The Washington Post, citing unnamed sources, reported that the Pentagon is considering diverting key munitions.

Asked about the report, US President Donald Trump said such decisions are not unusual.

“We do that all the time. Sometimes we take from one, and we use it for another,” he said.

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