Zelenskyy in Saudi Arabia to deepen GCC defence cooperation

ALBAWABA- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Saudi Arabia on Thursday for high-level talks aimed at strengthening security cooperation with Gulf states, with a particular focus on countering drone threats linked to escalating tensions involving Iran.

In a statement posted upon arrival, Zelenskyy said “important meetings” were scheduled, emphasizing Ukraine’s readiness to work with partners to enhance regional security. The visit comes as Gulf countries face increasing risks from Iranian-made Shahed-type drones amid broader regional confrontations involving the United States and Israel.

Ukraine has emerged as a key partner due to its extensive experience in countering large-scale drone attacks during its war with Russia. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, including Saudi Arabia, have reportedly sought Ukrainian expertise to strengthen their air-defence systems, which have been strained by repeated drone incursions.

Ukrainian teams are already deployed across several Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, working to assess vulnerabilities and integrate cost-effective interceptor drone systems with existing air-defence infrastructure.

Zelenskyy has framed the cooperation as mutually beneficial. Ukraine is offering battle-tested interception systems and operational expertise, while seeking additional air-defence missiles and financial support to expand its defence production, currently operating below full capacity.

In earlier remarks, the Ukrainian president stressed that advanced systems such as Patriot and THAAD alone are insufficient to counter mass drone attacks without integrated, lower-cost interception solutions and real-time operational expertise.

While Saudi officials have not yet detailed the outcomes of the visit, previous discussions between Zelenskyy and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have highlighted shared concerns over regional security and drone threats.

Ukrainian officials say more than 200 specialists are currently active across the Middle East, supporting efforts to build layered and sustainable air-defence systems. The cooperation could evolve into longer-term defence partnerships, including technology transfers and joint production.

Ukraine’s expanding role in Gulf security is a pragmatic alignment of interests. Gulf states gain affordable and proven drone defence capabilities, while Kyiv secures critical military resources and financing as it continues to navigate a protracted war.