Ukrainian Experts Collaborate in the Middle East on Defense

During a joint press conference with Romanian President Nicolae Ciucă, Zelensky emphasized the importance of collaborative defense efforts amid rising tensions in the region. He noted that the recent conflict escalation has led over ten countries from Europe and the Middle East to reach out to Ukraine for support in bolstering their defense capabilities.

Our teams are actively working together, as evidenced by their presence in Middle Eastern countries, according to the president. Zelensky shared feedback received from partners regarding the Ukrainian specialists' contributions.

Rustem Umerov, Secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, is reportedly present alongside Ukrainian military personnel in the region. Zelensky remarked on the positive reception of their work by these partner countries, indicating a mutual benefit from the collaboration.

Highlighting the specifics of the threat from drones, Zelensky pointed to the challenges faced by traditional defense systems. With over 800 Patriot missiles deployed during the outbreak of the recent conflict, he noted the inefficiency of such costly systems against the swarm tactics of drone warfare.

Ukrainian military experts possess unique knowledge about engaging 'Shahed' drones, an expertise not commonly found elsewhere. Zelensky underscored that effective defense against drone attacks requires more than just interceptor drones; it involves integrating these systems within broader air defense architectures and leveraging specialized software.

He attributed a substantial part of Ukraine's defense achievements to the experience and operational skills of its military personnel, including drone operators. In a related statement from March 10, Zelensky confirmed that specialized teams trained to combat 'Shaheed' threats would soon arrive in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia to assist in enhancing local defense operations.