Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on May 3 that Ukraine is working to strengthen its position amid the ongoing conflict with Russia by building new alliances and sharing military expertise, particularly in drone warfare. During a recent visit to Saudi Arabia, Zelensky stated his goal was to “strengthen the protection of lives” and highlighted agreements with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar for cooperation on drone technology.
The issue is significant as Ukraine faces continued pressure from Russia while international attention is drawn toward the US-Israeli war in Iran. The shifting focus has impacted support for Ukraine but also created opportunities for Kyiv to forge new partnerships and defense deals with Gulf states affected by Iranian missile and drone attacks.
Zelensky said, “We want to help [Gulf states] defend themselves. And we will continue building such partnerships with other countries.” He noted that Ukrainian battlefield experience has become valuable internationally, especially regarding countering low-cost drones like the Iranian-designed Shahed-136 used by Russia. According to Zelensky, these drones can be intercepted using systems much cheaper than traditional air defense missiles.
Recent developments include two major defense agreements signed by Ukraine in April: one with Norway valued at $8.6 billion as part of broader European support until 2030, and another with Germany worth $4.7 billion covering drones, missiles, software, and modern defense systems. In addition to seeking assistance from Middle Eastern partners for air defense equipment currently in short supply due to US commitments elsewhere, Ukraine is targeting Russian energy infrastructure using domestically produced long-range drones—a tactic learned from observing attacks on oil facilities during the Iran conflict.
The economic impact of these strikes has been notable; Ukrainian attacks reportedly reduced Russia’s weekly energy earnings by $1 billion after an initial surge fueled by higher global oil prices and relaxed sanctions enforcement. Meanwhile, political changes in Europe have unlocked previously stalled financial aid: Hungary’s recent election brought a government more open to supporting Kyiv through a €90 billion European Union-backed loan package intended for military procurement over the coming year.
As negotiations toward a ceasefire remain uncertain—complicated further by shifting US priorities—Zelensky continues efforts both on diplomatic fronts abroad and defensive measures at home. Observers note that Ukraine’s ability to adapt quickly may improve its position ahead of potential peace talks.
