Zelensky says US asked Ukraine for help fighting Iranian drones, and he’d assist on this one condition
Image by Thiện Ân, PDM 1.0.
Keeping cards close to his chest.
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The United States has reached out to Ukraine, asking for help defending its Gulf allies against Iranian drone attacks, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as reported by the BBC. Zelensky has agreed to assist, but with some very specific conditions.
Zelensky made it clear that while Ukraine is ready to lend a hand, any support provided absolutely cannot weaken Ukraine’s own defense against Russia’s full-scale invasion. He also emphasized that this assistance must lead to diplomatic gains for Kyiv. He’s actually suggested a swap: Ukraine would offer up its interceptor drones in exchange for more US Patriot air defense systems, which are vital for protecting against Russian ballistic missiles.
It’s no secret why the US and its Gulf partners are seeking Ukraine’s help. Many countries, particularly in the Gulf region, are facing serious challenges from Iranian-designed Shahed drones. These one-way unmanned aircraft are notoriously difficult to intercept without specialized expertise and adequate weaponry.
Ukraine, unfortunately, has years of firsthand experience fending off these very same drones, often used by Russia
Zelensky has been actively speaking with leaders across the Gulf, including those in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait, promising “concrete steps” to help them protect their military bases and civilian infrastructure. The irony of the situation isn’t lost on many Ukrainians. For years, they’ve been pleading for more consistent support against Russia, especially given President Trump’s often “erratic policy” toward their defense.
While the US has stopped direct military aid under the current administration, it does continue to provide critical intelligence that helps Ukraine defend against missiles and drones, and even strike targets deep within Russia. Now, the tables have turned, and President Trump has acknowledged the offer, saying, “I’ll take any assistance from any country.”
Zelensky is clearly looking to leverage this moment for Ukraine’s national interest, seeing it as a significant diplomatic, military, and financial opportunity. By helping American allies in the Gulf, Ukraine could win crucial US gratitude and build stronger ties with Arab nations, some of whom have historically maintained close links with Russia and tried to remain neutral in the conflict. Delegations from the Gulf have already arrived in Kyiv for discussions, with some reportedly told to stay until a deal is struck.
Another key motivation for Ukraine is to prevent a drain on precious resources. Zelensky hopes that by providing Gulf partners with effective air defenses, they won’t feel the need to use expensive and scarce Patriot missiles to shoot down cheap drones. Ukraine itself is facing a severe shortage of Patriot air defenses. Zelensky recently told journalists that about 800 Patriot PAC-3 missiles have been used in just the last few days, which is more than Ukraine has received throughout the entire war.
While Ukraine has the capability to ramp up production of interceptor drones, with Ihor Fedirko, head of the Ukrainian Council of Defense Industry, suggesting they could produce up to 10,000 a month, there are still hurdles. Any international transfers would require top-level political approval in Ukraine.
Fedirko also warned that providing allies with the necessary training and expertise to use these air defenses effectively would be tough. He pointed out that Ukraine’s training centers are currently “totally booked” by its own armed forces and civilians.
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Published: Mar 6, 2026 09:00 am