Ukrainian interceptors have shot down Iranian drones in several Middle Eastern countries — Zelenskyy
He made these remarks during a meeting with journalists, according to "Suspilne".
According to Zelenskyy, the experts sent by Ukraine included specialists in interceptor drones and electronic warfare.
They were reportedly able to advise Middle Eastern countries “very quickly” on how to strengthen their air defence systems, demonstrated how to operate interceptors, and shot down Iranian drones.
“Did we shoot down [drones] in just one country? No, in several. And that, in my opinion, is a success. This isn’t about a training mission, nor about drills, but about support in creating a modern air defence system that can actually work. Yes, they shot down ‘Shaheds’. And that’s very good,” says the president.
Among the downed drones, Zelenskyy says, were jet-powered drones, so now “it is only a matter of time before we begin mass-producing interceptors” for such UAVs.
He also added that, in addition to agreements on ten-year deals with three countries, negotiations are ongoing with Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain. In exchange for “our support and expertise”, Ukraine will receive “various items” — interceptors to protect Ukraine’s energy sector, diesel, oil “which will be sent to relevant refineries in Europe for processing”, as well as financial agreements.
As a reminder, following the outbreak of war in Iran, according to Zelenskyy, 11 countries sent requests to Ukraine for assistance in intercepting and shooting down Iranian ‘Shaheds’. Among them are the US, European countries and Iran’s neighbours.
To assist in the defence against Iranian drones, 201 Ukrainian experts were sent to Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. During his tour of the Gulf states, Zelenskyy met with them.
