EU warns global air defense stockpiles being drained over Iran conflict
Photo: EU High Representative Kaja Kallas (Getty Images)
The war in the Middle East has begun to deplete global stocks of air defense systems, which are critically needed by Ukraine, according to EU High Representative Kaja Kallas.
Air defense systems shortage
According to the EU's top diplomat, the Iranian conflict has a direct impact on the war in Ukraine. In particular, this concerns the redistribution of scarce defense resources, such as interceptor drones.
"There [are] defense capabilities that are needed in Ukraine now moving also to the Middle East. There’s also the issue of supply chains ... the capabilities that Ukraine needs, now also the Middle East needs when it comes to air defense," Kallas emphasizes.
She adds that the Persian Gulf countries are currently forced to actively use their air defense reserves in an attempt to repel Iranian attacks.
Economic risks and Ukraine's role
Kallas warns that the rise in global oil prices due to instability in the region plays into the Kremlin's hands. The high cost of energy resources allows Moscow to obtain additional funds to wage war.
At the same time, the diplomat notes that Ukraine can provide assistance to its partners in the Persian Gulf, as it has unique experience in combating drones.
"We see the same drones that are attacking Kyiv every day are attacking the Middle East. Ukraine can help the Gulf countries because they have developed drone interceptors and drone protection," Kallas concludes.
This issue is planned to be discussed at a virtual meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the EU and Gulf countries.
Iran conflict impact on Ukraine and EU assistance
The European Union has previously acknowledged that the escalation in the Middle East is a cause for serious concern, as it distracts the world's attention and resources needed to deter Russian aggression.
Experts have warned of the risks to Patriot system deliveries and the EU accession process amid direct clashes between Iran and Israel. Due to the shift in geopolitical priorities, Ukraine risks losing some of the financial support from its European partners in the future.
In addition, despite the stable respite provided by tranches from the IMF and the European Union, the ongoing war in Iran may force the West to reconsider the amount of further economic aid to Kyiv in favor of stabilizing the Middle East.
