Ukraine is in talks with Middle Eastern countries regarding air defence systems and funding
The United States has approached Ukraine regarding its bases in the Middle East. Similar requests have also been received from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in an interview with Le Monde.
According to available information, cooperation is already underway with some of these partners. Ukrainian expert teams are working on the ground, assessing the situation and sharing their expertise in the field of air defence.
It is noted that even the presence of Patriot, THAAD and other air defence systems does not provide complete protection. There remains a need for modern interceptors capable of countering massive drone attacks.
Ukraine is also discussing future deliveries of specific equipment at its disposal, whilst seeking to obtain additional resources from partners. This concerns, in particular, air defence missiles, of which the Ukrainian side is currently short.
Funding remains a key issue. The Ukrainian defence industry is currently operating at half capacity, and additional funds are required to ramp up drone production.
Ukraine states its readiness to sell systems of which it has sufficient quantities to its partners, as well as to provide expertise. It is noted that interceptor drones operate effectively in conjunction with the relevant systems.
The article also discusses the impact of sanctions on the Russian economy. Joint sanctions, particularly in the energy sector, have led to a reduction in revenue and restricted funding for the defence sector.
According to estimates, the Russian Federation’s budget deficit grew and stood at $83 billion by the end of 2025, with an additional $19 billion carried over to early 2026. A deficit of around $100 billion was forecast for 2026.
At the same time, following the easing of sanctions on petroleum products, Russia’s revenues have increased. According to the Ukrainian side, this affects the intensity of hostilities and creates opportunities to support Iran.
It is noted that Ukraine and the US have differing assessments of Russia’s intentions regarding the end of the war. The Ukrainian side believes that Russia is not demonstrating a willingness to end it and insists on increasing pressure.
It is also noted that the Russian army’s losses amount to 30–35 thousand personnel per month, and Russia is unable to compensate for them through mobilisation or contract service.
Ukraine emphasises the importance of funding, as it determines the capacity to produce drones, supply the military and support defence.
The provision of a loan to Ukraine was agreed by European Union leaders at the end of 2025. Kyiv is hoping for the unblocking of this mechanism or alternative solutions that will allow it to obtain the necessary funds.
It is noted that underfunding could affect the production of long-range drones, interceptor drones and air defence systems, including European systems and American PAC-3 missiles.
The Ukrainian side believes this poses a risk to European security, but expects its partners to find a solution.
