Ukraine to Deploy Specialists and Equipment to Middle East at US Request

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that the United States has requested Kyiv's assistance in countering Iranian-made "Shahed" drones in the Middle East. In response, Zelenskyy has ordered the provision of necessary equipment and the deployment of Ukrainian specialists to the region.

"We received a request from the United States for specific support in protecting against 'Shaheds' in the Middle East region," Zelenskyy stated via his official Telegram channel. "I instructed [the government] to provide the necessary means and ensure the presence of Ukrainian specialists who can provide the required security."

The president framed this move as reciprocal support for partners who aid Ukraine's own defense. "Ukraine helps partners who help our security, protect the lives of our people," he added.

Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine possesses unparalleled expertise in countering these specific drones, calling them "the greatest challenge" in that region. He assured that any assistance provided abroad would not come at the expense of Ukraine's own defensive capabilities.

In recent days, Zelenskyy has held discussions with leaders from several Gulf states, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait. He indicated that further talks with other regional leaders are planned and that Ukraine is coordinating with its European partners.

When questioned by journalists about whether he had requested such help from Ukraine, US President Donald Trump responded broadly: "I will accept any help from any country."

This development follows a similar move by the United Kingdom. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer previously stated his intention to involve Ukrainian experts in intercepting Iranian UAVs over the Persian Gulf. London has also agreed to allow US forces to utilize British bases for strikes against Iranian missile launchers and storage facilities.