politics
March 29, 2026
Ukraine war briefing: Zelenskyy drums up defence agreements with Gulf states on countering missiles and drones
Ukraine leader says signs with Qatar and Saudi Arabia, with one to come with the United Arab Emirates, as Iran presses aerial campaign against neighbours. What we know on day 1,495
TL;DR
- Ukraine signed a 10-year defense agreement with Qatar focused on countering missile and drone threats.
- This follows a similar agreement with Saudi Arabia and one anticipated with the United Arab Emirates.
- Ukraine is offering its expertise in battle-tested drone interceptors in exchange for advanced air-defence missiles from Gulf states.
- President Zelenskyy aims for systemic relationships, including joint production and investment, not just simple sales.
- These agreements are part of Ukraine's strategy to leverage its wartime experience into long-term ties and economic benefits.
- The deals occur as Iran claims to have struck a Ukrainian drone warehouse in Dubai, an allegation Ukraine denies.
- Ukraine also reported striking a major Russian oil refinery in Yaroslavl.
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