Defense technologies could become a new export sector for Ukraine
26 March 16:52
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Kyiv is in talks with Middle Eastern countries and the United States regarding cooperation in the field of air defense.
He made this statement in an interview with the French newspaper Le Monde, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
According to the president, a number of countries have approached Ukraine for advice on countering massive drone attacks, a skill the Ukrainian military acquired during the war with Russia.
Who has approached Ukraine
According to Zelenskyy, discussions on strengthening air defense are underway with several countries in the region.
These include:
- Saudi Arabia
- Qatar
- United Arab Emirates
- Bahrain
- Jordan
- Kuwait
In addition, according to the president, the United States has also approached Ukraine regarding the security of its military bases in the region.
Ukraine’s experience in countering drone attacks
Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that despite having modern air defense systems, Middle Eastern countries also face the problem of massive drone attacks.
According to him, even systems such as:
- Patriot missile system
- THAAD are not always capable of effectively countering dense drone strikes.
That is why, according to the president, Ukrainian expert teams are already working in some countries to assess the situation and share their experience.
Exchange of technologies and missiles
Ukraine is also considering the possibility of military-technical cooperation with partners.
Kyiv is ready to:
- supply its own defense developments;
- share expertise in countering drones.
In return, Ukraine would like to obtain scarce missiles for air defense systems, which are available to some Middle Eastern countries.
The problem of financing the defense industry
Separately, the president drew attention to the financial difficulties facing the defense sector.
According to Volodymyr Zelenskyy:
- the Ukrainian defense industry is operating at approximately 50% capacity;
- the main problem is a lack of funding.
That is why Ukraine is considering the export of defense technologies and systems as a way to secure additional resources.
U.S. statements on a possible end to the war
On the eve of the announcement, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Ukraine and Russia are nearing the end of the war and the conclusion of a peace agreement.
According to him, an agreement could be reached by November of this year.
