Volodymyr Zelensky has said Ukraine is ready to send its top drone defense specialists to the Middle East. In return, he wants regional leaders to help push for a temporary ceasefire with Russia.
In an interview with Bloomberg published on March 2, Zelensky said Ukraine has gained four years of experience fighting Iranian-designed Shahed drones. Russia has used thousands of these drones since its full-scale invasion began in 2022.
Zelensky said Ukraine’s experience in intercepting these drones is now “largely irreplaceable.” He added that similar drones are being used in attacks across parts of the Gulf region, raising new security concerns.
He suggested that Middle Eastern leaders, who maintain strong ties with Moscow, could ask Russian President Vladimir Putin to agree to a short truce. The proposed pause could last from two weeks to one or two months.
“If they secure a month-long ceasefire, we will send our best drone interceptor operators,” Zelensky said. He framed the move as a way to protect civilians in both Ukraine and the Middle East.
Ukraine claims it has intercepted more than 57,000 Shahed drones since 2022. The country has developed lower-cost interceptor systems and battlefield tactics that could help other nations facing similar threats.
Zelensky also said Ukraine is open to technology swaps. He has previously called for advanced air defense systems, including Patriot PAC-3 missiles, which Kyiv says it urgently needs.
There has been no immediate public response from Gulf governments. However, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has earlier said Ukrainian experts could help partners counter drone threats.
The situation remains tense. There is no sign yet of a breakthrough in ceasefire talks between Moscow and Kyiv. But Zelensky’s proposal shows how Ukraine is trying to use its wartime experience to gain diplomatic support beyond Europe.
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