US asks Ukraine to help defend Gulf states from Iranian drones
Mar 5th 2026
Kyiv says it can send specialists and equipment to help Gulf partners defend against Iranian drones, but only with guarantees that Ukrainian defence is not harmed and that Kyiv secures diplomatic benefits.
- The US has requested Ukrainian help to defend Gulf allies against Iranian Shahed drones.
- President Zelensky said Ukraine will provide equipment and specialists only if its own defence is not weakened and if Kyiv wins diplomatic gains.
- Zelensky proposed swapping Ukrainian interceptor drones for more US Patriot missiles to cover Ukraine's air defence shortfalls.
- President Trump said he would accept assistance from any country.
- Kyiv is negotiating with Gulf states and says it can scale interceptor drone production but any export would need top political approval.
- Ukraine warns training capacity is limited and says partners will need hands-on instruction to use air defences effectively.