Ukraine Seeks Middle‑East Help to Beat Iranian Drones

Ukraine is close to signing several security deals that could help it defend against Iranian attacks. The foreign minister said the country is in talks with the UAE and Qatar, and that it hopes to finish agreements during President Zelenskiy’s visit to the Gulf. The goal is to gain support for Ukraine’s fight against Russia, which has lasted five years. The talks focus on unmanned technology. Gulf states have used more than 800 Patriot missiles to protect themselves from Iranian strikes. They want to learn how Ukraine shoots down Russian drones and missiles. Ukraine also wants to know what help Russia gives Iran, such as intelligence or spare parts for drones.In addition to the UAE and Qatar, Ukraine has spoken with Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Jordan and Oman. The most advanced negotiations are with the UAE and Qatar because they suffer most from Iranian attacks. The foreign minister also said that U. S. mediation is still important, but it has stalled. He suggested asking China to help push for a ceasefire. China is close to Russia and has not joined sanctions against Moscow. It also supplies some Russian weapons, which worries U. S. and European governments. However, China remains Ukraine’s top trade partner. Ukraine hopes to finish the talks within two months and is waiting for a visit from Chinese officials. If China gets involved, it could influence Russia to end the war.