Zelenskyy announces new security deal after meeting UAE leader
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy with Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (Getty Images)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, during a meeting in Abu Dhabi with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, agreed on cooperation in the field of security and defense, the Presidential Office reports.
According to Zelenskyy, the sides discussed the security situation in the UAE and the region, including strikes by Iran, as well as the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which directly affects the global oil market.
The president emphasized that Ukraine is ready for long-term joint work with the Emirates, which he believes will strengthen both countries strategically and help protect lives.
The leaders also discussed ways to enhance defense, including investments, joint production, and modernization of systems protecting critical and social infrastructure.
“For all normal states, it is important to ensure stability and protect lives in the face of modern threats. Ukraine has relevant expertise: our cities have unfortunately been under daily attacks for four years of full-scale war. Ukrainians are working on a defense system that intercepts a significant share of enemy drones and missiles. It is this systematic approach and integration experience that we offer our partners,” Zelenskyy said.
According to him, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also thanked Ukraine for its expert support and experience shared with partners.
Following the meeting, Kyiv and Abu Dhabi agreed to further cooperation in security and defense. Teams from both countries are currently finalizing the details.
Work of the Ukrainian team in the UAE
A Ukrainian team has been working in the UAE for several weeks, helping strengthen protection of lives and security amid new threats.
Zelenskyy said he met with members of the group and discussed initial results, key conclusions, and further proposals.
“Our shared goal with partners is more security,” the president said. “Much depends on fast and effective defense decisions. Today, Ukraine not only needs help but is also ready to support those who support us.”
In recent weeks, Ukrainian experts have held a number of meetings with UAE security and defense officials.
According to Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian team is working on enhancing protection against aerial threats. These developments were discussed ahead of his meeting with the UAE president.
“There is already a clear understanding of how to strengthen the system for protecting airspace and critical infrastructure in the Emirates by integrating Ukrainian experience. These are comprehensive solutions that have proven their effectiveness,” he concluded.
As known, several Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates, have been drawn into the Middle East conflict. Iran has claimed it targets only US facilities in these countries, but attacks on civilian sites have also been reported.
In particular, Iran recently attacked the UAE’s largest oil port in Fujairah with drones. Strikes were also recorded near Dubai International Airport, increasing concerns about the safety of civilian infrastructure amid the escalation.
Despite massive missile and drone attacks, airlines in the UAE have not suspended flights. However, incidents near airports are heightening fears of further strikes and potentially broader consequences for civil aviation.
