According to Al Jazeera report, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has demanded money and new technology in exchange for helping Middle East countries with drone technology. In recent times, Ukraine has sent its drone experts to Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE. These countries had sought help from Ukraine to deal with the Iranian Shahed drone. Now in return Ukraine has made its conditions clear and has also expected defense systems like Patriot missiles in return for help.
Why did Ukrainian experts go to Gulf countries?
In the last few weeks, there have been a lot of talks between Ukraine and Middle East countries regarding drone security. Ukraine has sent its experts to the countries where America has bases so that they can strengthen the security system.
Jordan, Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain had asked Ukraine for help to stop Iranian Shahed drone attacks. Ukraine has good experience in intercepting and shooting down these drones due to war. President Zelensky has also made it clear that only Ukrainian operators and software should be used for drone defense in the Gulf countries.
What are Ukraine’s main demands?
In return for providing vital drone security in the Middle East, Ukraine has clearly said that this will not be a one-sided help. According to media updates, Zelensky has asked for many things back in this deal.
Along with economic aid and new technology, Ukraine wants air defense missile systems like Patriot for its country’s security. One Patriot missile costs about $3.8 million, which Ukraine is demanding for its defense. Apart from this, a plan to jointly manufacture drones is also underway between America and Ukraine, which is being given priority over other offers from Gulf countries.