Drones assistance in exchange for diesel: Zelenskyy reveals details of his visit to Middle East
Photo: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (president.gov.ua)
Ukraine expects that Middle Eastern countries, in exchange for assistance with Shahed drones, will provide support with diesel supplies, states President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a national telethon broadcast.
The President has already visited not only Saudi Arabia. According to him, Middle Eastern countries are equipped with strong protection against ballistic missiles, including air defense systems that Ukraine does not even have. However, their main current challenge is protection against Iranian attack drones.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine is now providing Middle Eastern countries with precise expertise to help protect civilian infrastructure and civilians.
"In turn, I have raised the issue of a diesel shortage with the Cabinet of Ministers and Naftogaz (the state-owned, national oil and gas company of Ukraine). I understand the tasks for Ukraine’s security. I believe this is an issue I am resolving," he added.
The President confirmed that during his visit to the Middle East, he is addressing the problem of diesel supplies to Ukraine.
"Of the potential shortage, 90% is diesel. So we are closing this issue," he explained.
Zelenskyy’s visit to Saudi Arabia
On March 26, it became known that Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Saudi Arabia for important meetings.
In particular, the head of the Ukrainian state met with Ukrainian experts who are helping Middle Eastern countries defend against ongoing Iranian drone attacks.
The President also met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Ahead of the meeting, Ukraine and Saudi Arabia signed an agreement on defense cooperation.
