Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Kyiv is looking forward to receiving diesel supplies from Middle Eastern countries in exchange for providing assistance in countering Iranian Shahed missiles. During an interview with Ukraine-based ICTV channel, Zelenskyy emphasized that his recent visit to the Middle East aimed at securing diesel supplies for Ukraine.

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy highlighted that Ukraine is offering its expertise to Middle Eastern countries for the protection of civilian infrastructure and civilians. He noted that despite advanced air defense systems, the main challenge for the region remains defending against Iranian drones. Zelenskyy mentioned having two significant meetings during his Middle East visit, which he described as positive for Ukraine, though he did not disclose specific details.

Zelenskyy previously mentioned that Ukraine and Saudi Arabia had reached a significant agreement on defense cooperation during his visit to the Gulf nation. Discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman covered the Middle East and Gulf region situations, as well as developments in fuel supplies. Additionally, Zelenskyy met with Ukrainian military experts in the Gulf who have been working to counter Iranian drones over the past week.