Ukraine in talks to deploy troops and experts to Middle East, Zelenskyy says
Mar 5th 2026
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Kyiv is working with partners on possible deployments of Ukrainian troops and experts in the Middle East to help protect civilians and restore safe navigation, while ensuring Ukraine’s own defence is not weakened.
- Kyiv is coordinating with partners on arrangements for Ukrainian troops and experts to operate on the ground in the Middle East.
- Zelenskyy said Iran launched over 800 missiles and more than 1,400 attack drones in just a few days.
- He has tasked agencies to present assistance options that will not weaken Ukraine's own defence.
- Zelenskyy said the Ukrainian military has the necessary capabilities and teams are already coordinating on-site deployments.
- He said no direct request has yet been received to send experts to shoot down Iranian drones in the Persian Gulf.