Ukraine has signed a series of air defence and production agreements with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, in a move that reinforces its growing role within the international security landscape.
President Zelensky Announcement
Announced on 30 March, President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that the agreements will see Ukraine export both its air defence systems and the operational expertise developed during the conflict. The partnerships also include joint development of defence technologies, alongside cooperation in energy supply, including diesel and other critical resources.
According to Reuters, Zelensky stated during an online briefing that the agreements are expected to run for ten years, providing a longer-term framework for collaboration between Ukraine and the Gulf states.
He added that Ukrainian specialists are already working with regional partners to assess air defence requirements, particularly in response to threats posed by Iranian-made Shahed drones and missile systems. The focus is on identifying practical adjustments needed to strengthen regional protection capabilities.
Ukraine agreement with Saudi Arabia
In a statement shared via his official Telegram channel, Zelensky described the agreement with Saudi Arabia as a foundation for further contracts, technological cooperation, and investment, positioning Ukraine as an emerging contributor to international security provision.
Interest from the region appears to be expanding. Zelensky noted that Bahrain and Oman have also requested support, while discussions are ongoing with Jordan and Kuwait. Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council Secretary, Rustem Umerov, is continuing political-level negotiations across the region.
The agreements form part of a broader effort by Ukraine to strengthen its global defence partnerships while securing critical components for its own air defence infrastructure. This includes ongoing procurement activity focused on anti-ballistic missile systems.
Zelensky described this as a “global goal”, adding that Ukraine remains in active dialogue with European partners regarding the agreements reached in the Middle East.
