Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Jordan as part of a high-stakes diplomatic tour of the Middle East, where he has been signing key defence agreements with regional powers. The visit marks a significant development in Ukraine's efforts to bolster its security ties with Gulf states, which have been seeking to bolster their defences against Iranian drone attacks. According to Zelensky, security remains the top priority, and it is crucial that all partners make concerted efforts to achieve this goal. Ukraine has been sharing its expertise in downing Russian drones with Gulf nations, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Ukrainian anti-drone experts have been deployed to these countries, where they are working alongside local forces to counter the Iranian threat.
The visit to Jordan follows a series of defence agreements signed by Ukraine with Gulf states, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. These agreements have been facilitated by Ukraine's expertise in downing Russian drones, which has been in high demand following the recent escalation of tensions in the region. Ukraine's anti-drone capabilities have been bolstered by a combination of cheap drone interceptors, electronic jamming tools, and anti-aircraft guns. The country has also proposed swapping its interceptors for expensive air-defence missiles used by US allies in the region to down Iranian drones.
The visit to Jordan is expected to yield significant results, with Zelensky set to hold key meetings with regional officials to discuss ways to enhance security cooperation. The outcome of these talks will have far-reaching implications for the region, where tensions between Iran and its Gulf neighbours remain high.
The recent agreements between Ukraine and Gulf states mark a significant shift in the regional security landscape. By leveraging its expertise in downing Russian drones, Ukraine has positioned itself as a key player in the Middle East's defence landscape. The implications of these agreements will be closely watched, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions between Iran and its Gulf neighbours.
