Ukraine to Assist U.S. in Countering Iranian Shahed Drones in the Middle East

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced that Ukraine will assist the United States in defending against Iranian Shahed drones in the Middle East following a request from Washington. The decision highlights Ukraine’s growing expertise in counter-drone warfare, gained during its ongoing war with Russia.

According to Zelenskiy, the United States requested specific support to protect its military bases and personnel in the region from Iranian drone attacks. Tehran has reportedly launched hundreds of drones targeting U.S. facilities in nearby countries after the United States and Israel began a large-scale campaign of air strikes against Iran earlier this week.

Ukraine has extensive experience combating Iranian-designed Shahed kamikaze drones, which Russia has frequently used during the four-year conflict against Ukraine. Ukrainian forces have developed advanced interception techniques and defensive systems capable of detecting and destroying these drones effectively. This expertise is now expected to play a key role in helping U.S. forces strengthen their air defense capabilities in the Middle East.

In a message posted on social media platform X, Zelenskiy confirmed that he had instructed Ukrainian authorities to provide the necessary support. This includes deploying specialists and defensive technologies designed to counter Shahed drones. A source familiar with the discussions said Ukrainian personnel could begin assisting U.S. operations within the next few days.

U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed in a Reuters interview that Washington would welcome assistance from any partner nation capable of helping defend against the growing drone threat. The cooperation underscores increasing international collaboration to counter Iranian drone attacks and protect military infrastructure in the region.

Despite agreeing to assist the United States, Zelenskiy expressed concern that escalating tensions in the Middle East could affect Western military support for Ukraine. Kyiv has already faced shortages of U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems, which are currently its most effective weapon for intercepting Russian ballistic missiles.

Earlier this week, Zelenskiy also suggested a potential exchange arrangement with Middle Eastern allies. Ukraine could provide interceptor drone technology in return for additional air defense missiles, including Patriot systems, which remain critical for protecting Ukrainian cities and infrastructure from Russian missile strikes.

The move reflects Ukraine’s strategic effort to strengthen international partnerships while addressing its own defense needs during the ongoing conflict with Russia.