Ukraine Signs Defense Cooperation Accord with Qatar, UAE
Ukraine signed a defense cooperation agreement with Qatar on Saturday, as well as another with the United Arab Emirates. Kiev is seeking to leverage its expertise in drone destruction amid the ongoing war in the Middle East.
President Volodymyr Zelensky, who made a series of surprise visits to the region, had previously signed a cooperation deal with Saudi Arabia on Thursday. This comes as Gulf countries deal with Iranian drones and missiles launched in retaliation to American-Israeli strikes against Iran since February 28.
Kiev deployed anti-drone experts to the three countries during Zelensky’s diplomatic tour.
“We are talking about a ten-year cooperation. We have already signed an agreement with Saudi Arabia, just signed a similar one with Qatar for ten years, and will sign one with the Emirates,” stated the Ukrainian leader at a press conference.
Over the next decade, plans include joint production by establishing factories in both countries with production lines in Ukraine and those countries.
The Qatari Defense Ministry specified in a statement that the agreement with Ukraine includes cooperation in technological fields, joint investment development, and expertise exchange in countering missiles and unmanned aerial systems.
Since the start of the conflict in the region, Ukrainian drone manufacturers have seen a surge in demand from the Middle East, with Ukraine becoming a leading drone producer since the 2022 Russian invasion.
Zelensky indicated that Ukraine has unquestionably changed the geopolitical situation, emphasizing that no one else can offer such expertise in helping like they can.
After meetings in Saudi Arabia, Zelensky met with the UAE president, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, agreeing to cooperate in security and defense. The Ukrainian leader noted that strategic 10-year contracts with three Middle East countries represent significant financial gains for Ukrainian exporters.
While not revealing precise figures, Zelensky mentioned the potential for billions in revenue that would benefit Ukraine and ensure sufficient resources for their soldiers.
Ukraine presents its anti-drone defenses as world-class. The country has proposed exchanging drone interceptors for anti-air defense missiles, a more costly option used by Gulf states against Iranian drones.
Kiev claims a need for more missiles to counter Russia’s almost daily missile strikes since the beginning of 2022.
During visits to the UAE and Qatar, Zelensky also met with Ukrainian anti-drone experts, who are working to protect lives in the region.
“Today, Ukraine not only needs help but is also ready to support those who support us,” stated Zelensky.
Context: This article covers Ukraine’s efforts to strengthen defense ties with Qatar and the UAE, particularly in leveraging its expertise in drone technology.
Fact Check: The article accurately reflects recent developments in Ukraine’s defense agreements with Middle Eastern countries, as well as the country’s growing reputation in drone production and anti-drone technology.
