Zelenskyy Expands Gulf Defence Partnerships
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a notable visit to Saudi Arabia in March, arriving in a black outfit and walking across a lilac carpet in what observers described as a carefully staged diplomatic moment. He said the trip was aimed at “strengthening the protection of lives,” highlighting Ukraine’s effort to expand international security partnerships amid its ongoing war with Russia. Zelenskyy’s visit formed part of a broader push by Kyiv to position itself as a global hub for battlefield-tested drone warfare expertise. Ukraine has increasingly showcased its military experience to Gulf states, particularly in countering drone and missile threats, in an effort to build strategic and defence-related partnerships. According to Ukrainian officials, agreements have now been reached with Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar to share drone technology and operational know-how. These countries have themselves faced missile and drone […]