Ukraine is deploying drone experts to three Gulf nations to assist in countering Iranian drone threats, as part of a broader strategy to leverage its military expertise amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

Context

The move comes as Ukraine faces requests from multiple countries for assistance in dealing with Iranian drones, which have been used in retaliation against US-Israeli strikes.S1S2

Key points

• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that 11 countries sought Kyiv's help against Iranian drones.S1

• The deployment aims to assist Gulf countries in countering drone threats from Iran.S2

• Ukraine's military has experience in downing Iranian Shahed drones, enhancing its credibility as a partner.S2

• This initiative is seen as an opportunity for Ukraine to position itself as a high-tech arms producer.S2

• The assistance may provide Ukraine leverage in its ongoing conflict with Russia.S1

• The Ukrainian government views the situation as a chance to generate significant revenue.S2

• The drone expert teams are part of a broader military cooperation strategy with Gulf nations.S2

• Ukraine's involvement in the Gulf reflects its expanding role in international military partnerships.S1

Why it matters

• The deployment underscores Ukraine's strategic pivot to international military cooperation amid its conflict with Russia.S1

• Assisting Gulf countries may strengthen regional security against Iranian drone capabilities.S2

• Positioning as a high-tech arms producer could enhance Ukraine's economic prospects during wartime.S2

What to watch

• Monitor the responses from Gulf countries regarding the effectiveness of Ukrainian assistance.S2

• Watch for potential shifts in military dynamics in the Gulf region due to this cooperation.S1

• Keep an eye on how this initiative impacts Ukraine's ongoing conflict with Russia.S1