Ukraine finds new role as protector of US, Gulf allies amid Iran war

"Zelenskyy said the US and more than 10 European and Middle Eastern countries had already reached out to Ukraine, requesting our support for their defensive capabilities. Ukraine had a vested interest in answering that call, said Zelenskyy. Stability is important for us, as well. Those now seeking Ukraine's help must continue to assist our own defence, he said."

"Ukraine had struck drone co-production agreements with a number of European allies. It has proposed the same to the US. Everyone now sees that there is no alternative to this approach, he said. The Washington Post reported on March 6 that Russia had been helping Iran target US assets and allies in the Gulf, citing three unnamed US officials."

The United States, having reduced military aid to Ukraine under President Trump, requested Kyiv's assistance defending Gulf bases from Iranian drone attacks. Ukraine responded by sending military experts and dispatching negotiators to sell interceptor drones to Gulf states. President Zelenskyy stated that the US and over 10 European and Middle Eastern countries sought Ukrainian defensive support. Ukraine pursued drone co-production agreements with European allies and proposed similar arrangements with the US. Ukraine's assistance served multiple interests: demonstrating drone effectiveness, securing continued international support for its own defense, and potentially shifting US perception of Russia through evidence of Moscow's collusion with Iran targeting American assets.

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