Ukraine seeks Gulf partnerships as doubts grow over US arms

Ukraine and Saudi Arabia have signed a framework agreement on defence cooperation aimed at paving the way for investment, technological exchange and joint projects.

During an unannounced visit to the Gulf, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that Kyiv was seeking new partnerships amid growing uncertainty over US arms supplies. Washington is reportedly considering redirecting some military aid to the Middle East because of the conflict with Iran.

At the same time, Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine has already sent more than 220 experts to the region to advise on drone defence. Kyiv expects both financial and technological support in return for this assistance.

Meanwhile, drones have become a key element in the war with Russia, and Ukraine is seeking to rapidly expand production.

The president indicated that the country could, with sufficient funding, produce thousands of defence drones a day, helping to counterbalance Russia’s numerical superiority.

(reuters, pir)