Zelenskyy flags Middle East conflict risks for Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed challenges arising from the Middle East conflict, including arms transfers and the energy crisis, in an interview with Rai Italia, which he shared on his Telegram channel.

He noted that Iran previously supplied weapons to Russia used against Ukraine, though that threat has lessened as Iran is unlikely to transfer arms under current conditions. Russia, however, continues producing missiles and drones under Iranian licenses. Zelenskyy expressed concern that if military operations persist, the US might reduce air defence and missile system deliveries to Ukraine.

“There is concern from signals, both public and private, from the United States regarding the continuation of this military operation, and that in this context they will prioritise additional air defence systems for themselves and their allies. They will also closely monitor their PAC-2 and PAC-3 production capacities—interceptor missiles for Patriot systems. The concern is that in a prolonged war, America may reduce air defence missile supplies for Ukraine,” Zelenskyy wrote.

He highlighted Ukraine’s willingness to share expertise with Middle Eastern partners on protecting civilian infrastructure from drone attacks. 

“We have received signals from partners in the Middle East. Iranian Shahed drones have struck civilians in these countries. They want our expertise. We are open. If their representatives visit, we will provide expertise. <…> Regarding technology and arms exchanges, I believe our country will be open to this,” he said.

Zelenskyy noted Ukraine faces shortages of PAC-2 and PAC-3 interceptors, while the US and European countries have sufficient stock. Ukraine does possess interceptor drones, which could benefit partners.

Regarding Russia, Zelenskyy stressed that it is not acting as an Iranian ally and is resource-constrained due to its focus on the war against Ukraine, though it continues supplying Iran with electronics for Shahed drones and may provide air defence systems.

He added that due to the new Middle East conflict, the planned Ukraine–US–Russia trilateral meeting (March 5–9) may be postponed or rescheduled.

By Jeyhun Aghazada